Tanker Disabled After Fire and Strike Near Iran Route

The Palau-flagged oil tanker *Marivex *was left disabled after a fire broke out onboard on June 8, following allegations that the vessel failed to comply with instructions issued by U.S. forces while sailing toward Iran.

The fire was reported at approximately 1:30 p.m. Indian time aboard the tanker, which was carrying 24 Indian crew members and no cargo at the time of the incident. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), an F/A-18 fighter aircraft launched a precision-guided munition targeting the vessel’s engineering and steering compartments, rendering the ship unable to continue its voyage toward Iran.

India’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) confirmed that all crew members are safe. Officials said they are working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian diplomatic missions overseas, the Indian Navy and the Ministry of Defence to ensure the crew’s continued safety and welfare.

Authorities also confirmed that the Indian Navy has begun evacuation operations to remove the seafarers from the vessel.

*Marivex *was sanctioned by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in December 2025 under measures related to Iran.