United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the recent attack on a Palau-flagged tanker off the coast of Oman that resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers. The incident is part of escalating tensions in West Asia involving US and Iranian actions.
On June 10, US forces struck the tanker MT Settebello near the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a fire and killing three out of 24 Indian crew members. The attack followed a projectile strike on the vessel. UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarric, at a press briefing on Thursday, expressed full support for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez’s sharp condemnation of the incident.
Dominguez expressed “deep sadness” and “strong condemnation,” describing the attack as “simply unacceptable.” He highlighted the endangerment of seafarers’ lives and international shipping safety. The IMO chief extended condolences to the families of the deceased and called for a full, transparent investigation. He stressed that all parties must respect international law, protect civilian shipping, and uphold freedom of navigation.
Guterres voiced deep concern over the broader escalation, including US strikes on Iran and Iranian attacks on neighbouring countries not involved in the conflict. He urged an immediate return to a ceasefire to prevent further deterioration that could spark a full-scale resumption of hostilities with unpredictable global consequences. The UN chief emphasised dialogue, negotiations, and a comprehensive peaceful agreement between the US and Iran to safeguard regional and international security.
India has reacted strongly to the incidents. In the last four days, three merchant vessels with Indian crew—Palau-flagged Marivex (June 8, crew rescued safely), Settebello (June 10, three fatalities), and Guinea-Bissau-flagged Jalveer (Thursday)—were struck by US Navy forces. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the US Charge d’Affaires and issued a diplomatic protest note. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the attacks as “deeply worrisome.”
The incidents come amid a US-imposed blockade on Iranian ports after Iran reportedly shut the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy supplies. Both the UN and IMO have reiterated the paramount importance of protecting seafarers and maintaining safe maritime operations.
