U.S. Missile Strike Shakes Gulf of Oman: A Week of Tensions

A U.S. jet has struck the Indian-crewed tanker Jalveer near Oman, marking the third attack on Indian tankers this week amid heightened tensions. The attacks are part of a U.S. blockade targeting Iran-related shipping in the region. The Indian crew was safely evacuated after the incident.

A U.S. jet armed with Hellfire missiles targeted the engine room of the tanker Jalveer near Oman, as confirmed by U.S. Central Command. The attack marks the third assault this week on Indian-crewed tankers amidst rising regional tensions.

Three Indian sailors tragically perished on the Settebello tanker, also struck off Oman, merely a day before. Centcom maintains that the Jalveer’s crew failed to comply with U.S. directives, prompting defensive actions against the Guinea-Bissau flagged vessel attempting to transport Iranian oil.

The U.S. has enforced a blockade on Iran-related shipping since mid-April, affecting over 180 vessels, including nine disabled ships and 135 redirected ones. The Indian foreign ministry has called for an immediate cessation of these hostilities.