Working Conditions Aboard the Sarveshwar

On June 11, 2025, at approximately 11:20 a.m., the bitumen tanker 'Jalveer,' carrying a crew of 20 Indian nationals, was struck and rendered inoperative by two Hellfire missiles launched from a U.S. aircraft. The vessel reportedly failed to adhere to directives issued by U.S. forces operating off the port of Shinas in Oman, resulting in the disastrous fire that erupted in the ship's engine room. This incident marks a troubling escalation in maritime security tensions in the region, as 'Jalveer' becomes the third Indian-crewed tanker to face military action near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following the previous attacks on the 'Settebello' (IMO: 9162916) and 'Marivex' (IMO: 946415). Upon ignition, the tanker sent out urgent distress signals over VHF CH16, alerting authorities to the significant blaze within its engine room. In response, local Search and Rescue (SAR) teams and Omani naval forces mobilized quickly to provide assistance to the crew and contain the fire. Reports indicated that all crew members were accounted for and had safely gathered on the forecastle, while thick smoke billowed from the aft section of the ship. An evacuation operation was launched in collaboration with Omani authorities to ensure the safe removal of the crew from the dangerous situation. The cause of the fire and the details surrounding the alleged missile strike are under thorough investigation, led by maritime security agencies and local authorities who are working to determine the full scope of the incident. This event has intensified concerns regarding maritime security in the Gulf, especially amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Following the attack, the Indian Embassy in Oman has been actively gathering information and liaising with local officials to support the affected crew members. The Indian government took a strong stance on the matter, summoning Jason Meeks, the U.S. deputy chief of mission in New Delhi, on June 12 to express discontent over military strikes targeting civilian vessels. This was the second diplomatic protest lodged by India within three days, stemming from previous incidents involving the U.S. Navy that led to the tragic loss of three Indian sailors aboard the 'Settebello'. Fortunately, the 'Jalveer' incident resulted in no casualties or injuries. For ongoing coverage and updates on this unfolding situation, please refer to the following news sources: - [Muscat Daily](https://www.muscatdaily.com/2026/06/11/fire-reported-on-board-vessel-near-shinas-port/) - [Republic World](https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/3rd-vessel-mt-jalveer-with-indian-crew-onboard-attacked-off-oman-coast-2026-06-11-127774) - [YouTube Coverage](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtP2c8iIK_s&source_ve_path=MjM4NTE&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.republicworld.com%2F) - [CENTCOM Update on Twitter](https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2065032634908987869) - [Al Monitor Article](https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/06/india-summons-top-us-diplomat-second-time-protest-strikes-ships-oman-source-says)