The International Maritime Organization has publicly condemned a US military attack on a tanker operating off the coast of Oman, following an incident that left seafarers dead, injured, or missing.
According to Ship & Bunker, a US aircraft opened fire on the 42,700 DWT tanker Settebello at approximately 9:30 AM UTC on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. The vessel was located around 20 nautical miles north-east of Sohar at the time of the strike.
US Central Command stated via social media that the attack followed the crew’s repeated failure to comply with directions from American forces. The vessel had allegedly been in breach of a US blockade targeting ships that have called at Iranian ports, according to Ship & Bunker’s reporting.
Casualties Reported
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency reported that the strike caused one confirmed casualty, with two additional crew members listed as missing, as noted by Ship & Bunker.
IMO Secretary General Speaks Out
IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez released a formal statement condemning the action in unambiguous terms.
“I strongly condemn any act from any party that endangers the lives of seafarers and the safety of international shipping,” Dominguez said, as quoted by Ship & Bunker. “This is simply unacceptable.”
Dominguez added: “My thoughts are with the families of the three missing seafarers and with all those awaiting news of the crew members.”
Does This Matter to You?
This incident carries significant weight for the maritime community. A military strike on a commercial tanker in a major shipping corridor raises immediate concerns about crew safety, freedom of navigation, and the operating environment for vessels transiting the waters around the Arabian Peninsula and Gulf of Oman.
The involvement of a recognized international body — the IMO — signals that this is not being treated as an isolated security incident. The Secretary General’s condemnation reflects broader concerns about the protection of seafarers and the integrity of international shipping lanes.
For anyone with vessels, cargoes, or operational interests in these waters, the evolving security situation and the enforcement of sanctions-related blockades are factors that now carry demonstrated physical risk. Route planning, flag state guidance, and P&I club advisories take on heightened importance in this context.
Ship & Bunker notes that a separate incident — a cargo ship fired upon south of Yemen — was also reported on the same day, pointing to a broader pattern of maritime security pressure in the region.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
