India evacuates crew after tanker fire off Oman
India’s shipping ministry says the crew of the asphalt tanker Jalveer is being evacuated after a fire broke out aboard the vessel off the coast of Oman.
The incident occurred near the port of Shinas after a blaze erupted around the ship’s engine room and funnel, according to maritime risk management company Vanguard. Indian officials said the evacuation was being carried out in coordination with the Royal Navy of Oman.
The development follows two other incidents involving Indian-crewed vessels in the region this week. Three Indian sailors were killed in a strike on the tanker Settebello off Oman a day earlier, according to Indian authorities.
Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Jalveer was attacked by the US Navy. Maritime security company Ambrey said the cause of a fire on the Jalveer had not been disclosed but suggested it was likely linked to US operations enforcing its blockade on Iranian ports. There has been no immediate comment from US Central Command.