The twenty Indian crew members of MT Jalveer are set to return to India after being safely evacuated following a maritime security incident off the coast of Oman, as the episode continues to trigger diplomatic concerns over attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian seafarers.
The Ambassador of India to Oman, Prashant Pise, interacted with the rescued crew members in Muscat before their repatriation and wished them a safe journey home. The Embassy of India in Muscat said on X, “The crew were safely evacuated ashore, in coordination with Omani authorities, following the incident involving the vessel on 11 June 2026.”
Ambassador of India to Oman interacted with the 20 Indian crew members of MT Jalveer in Muscat ahead of their repatriation to India and wished them a safe journey home.
The crew were safely evacuated ashore, in coordination with Omani authorities, following the incident… pic.twitter.com/MkM3tPIq5t
— India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) June 15, 2026
India highlights safety of sailors after Oman incidents
The interaction allowed the top diplomat to review the condition of the rescued sailors following the incident. The Embassy said, “Embassy of India remains committed to extending prompt assistance and support to Indian nationals in distress and ensuring their welfare and safe return home.”
The repatriation comes after India intensified diplomatic action over a series of strikes on commercial vessels near the Omani coast that resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers.
MEA raises strong protest over vessel attacks
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had summoned United States Charge d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time within 48 hours, registering India’s strong protest over the incidents.
The move came after three Indian crew members, who were reported missing following an attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello, were confirmed dead.
The MEA said, “The Ministry once again conveyed its deep concern over the use of lethal and deadly force against civilian shipping. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the safety, security, and stability of international maritime commerce in a sensitive region at a difficult time.”
The ministry also said that India’s concerns were conveyed to the US envoy for onward communication to Washington, urging steps to prevent further civilian casualties.
Three strikes raise maritime security concerns
The diplomatic tensions followed a series of strikes on commercial vessels amid the escalating US-Iran confrontation in the Gulf region.
The most serious incident involved the MT Settebello, which was carrying 24 Indian crew members when it was struck off the coast of Oman.
A joint search-and-rescue operation by Indian and Omani authorities rescued 21 crew members, while three Indian sailors were later confirmed dead.
Another vessel, MT Jalveer, reportedly came under attack near Shinas port off the Omani coast, leading to the evacuation of around 20 Indian crew members and subsequent repatriation efforts.
The sequence of three strikes within a short period highlighted the risks faced by Indian seafarers as regional tensions affected key international shipping routes.
MSV Virat crew rescued, heading towards Mumbai
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed that all 14 crew members aboard the Indian-flagged MSV Virat were rescued after the vessel sank about 80 nautical miles off Ras Al Hadd, Oman.
The Embassy said on X, “Rescue operation involving Indian Flagged MSV Virat 1 has been completed. All 14 crew members have been rescued and are presently onboard Jabal Ali 9 heading to Mumbai. The crew members are safe and in good health.”
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) confirmed that the crew members were safe following coordination between Omani authorities, the Embassy of India in Oman, maritime agencies and other stakeholders.
The rescued sailors are currently aboard Jabal Ali 9 and are travelling towards Mumbai.