Three Indian Sailors Killed in US Strike Near Strait of Hormuz

Three Indian sailors were killed aboard the vessel MT Settebello following a United States military strike near the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports on June 12, 2026.

The incident has raised immediate strategic and diplomatic concerns for India. As a close strategic partner of the United States, India faces a complex situation, particularly with thousands of its citizens currently working across the West Asia region. The safety of Indian nationals in the area has become a key focus of concern following the fatal strike.

The attack on the MT Settebello comes amid a broader escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened to launch fresh military strikes on Tehran. Additionally, President Trump announced plans for the United States to take over Kharg Island, which serves as Iran's key oil export hub. Although he later signalled that a broader peace deal between the nations may be close, the volatility continues to impact the region.

This West Asia conflict and the rising threat of a wider war have also begun to exert severe economic pressure globally and within India. In response to rising fuel costs and operational disruptions linked to the conflict, the Centre announced a Rs 10,000 crore support package for oil marketing companies.

This financial package is intended to stabilise jet fuel prices and provide relief to Indian airlines. Aviation companies have been grappling with rising operational costs and flight disruptions due to the unstable situation in the region.

The deaths of the three sailors highlight the direct human cost of the escalating geopolitical tensions for Indian nationals operating in these highly volatile shipping lanes. Further details regarding the identities of the three sailors or the exact operational status of the MT Settebello at the time of the strike have not been made public.