Key Facts
A distress call from the Indian-crewed oil tanker MT Marivex has revealed the harrowing moments after a US missile strike off the coast of Oman. The vessel, which was not carrying cargo, was hit by a precision munition from a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet on Monday, June 12, 2026. All 24 Indian crew members were later rescued by Omani forces.
Details of the Attack
The SOS audio, released days after the incident, captures a crew member pleading for help: "Sir, this is motor tanker Marivex... we have fire on board and vessel is sinking." He added, "US Navy attack, the missile on our engine room. We have hole at the bottom. We have fire onboard, please help. Please help, please help." The crew member repeatedly stressed that all 24 sailors were Indian nationals: "Total all crew Indian. Twenty-four crew, all crew Indian. Please help quickly, we need immediate help."
US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American forces disabled the Palau-flagged tanker after it allegedly attempted to breach a US blockade on Iranian ports. According to CENTCOM, the Marivex had made four attempts to sail towards Iran and had been warned on three previous occasions. The vessel was unladen at the time of the strike.
Rescue Operation
Following the distress call, India's Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai coordinated with Omani authorities. A Royal Air Force of Oman helicopter from Masirah Island evacuated all 24 crew members, who were winched one by one from the deck. The Ministry of Defence praised the international cooperation that ensured the crew's safety.
Broader Context: Third Attack on Indian Crew
The Marivex incident is part of a worrying pattern in the Gulf of Oman. Earlier this week, the tanker Jalveer (20 Indian crew) was also attacked by US forces, though all crew were reported safe. Another vessel, Settebello, was struck, resulting in the deaths of three Indian crew members. The US blockade of Iranian ports, enforced after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, has led to multiple confrontations.
What Readers Should Know
- The Marivex was previously known as Arihant and had been sanctioned by the US for alleged links to Iran.
- Ship-tracking data shows the tanker had called at Iranian ports before sailing to India's west coast.
- All 24 Indian crew members are safe and were brought ashore to Masirah Island.
- Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with international partners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the tanker Marivex?
The Palau-flagged tanker Marivex, carrying 24 Indian crew, was struck by a US precision munition fired from an F/A-18 Super Hornet after allegedly attempting to breach a US blockade of Iranian ports. The crew sent an SOS reporting fire and flooding.
Were the Indian crew members rescued?
Yes, all 24 Indian crew members were safely evacuated by a Royal Air Force of Oman helicopter and brought ashore to Masirah Island.
Why did the US attack the Marivex?
US Central Command said the tanker violated a blockade on Iranian ports by trying to sail towards Iran. The vessel had been warned multiple times and was previously sanctioned for alleged links to Iran.
Is this the only attack on Indian-crewed vessels?
No. At least three vessels with Indian crew have been targeted in the Gulf of Oman this week: Marivex, Jalveer (20 Indian crew, safe), and Settebello (3 Indian crew killed).
Source: www.hindustantimes.com