The manager of the tanker MT Settebello has accused the United States Navy of being responsible for an incident that resulted in the deaths of three individuals linked to the vessel, escalating tensions over military activity in the Gulf region and raising fresh questions about the safety of commercial shipping routes in conflict-prone waters.

In a public statement issued by IOS Marine F.Z.E., the company managing the vessel, the firm demanded a transparent and independent investigation into the incident, stating that the circumstances surrounding the deaths have not been adequately explained. The company said the families of the deceased deserve clear answers and accountability regarding what transpired during the episode.

The ship manager rejected allegations that the tanker ignored radio warnings or failed to respond to instructions prior to the incident. It further claimed that no effective communication was established with the vessel before any action was taken and called on authorities to disclose evidence supporting claims that contact attempts had been made.

Also Read: Inside PM Modi’s EAC-PM Meeting: Growth Push And Global Risks Take Center Stage

IOS Marine also denied reports suggesting that MT Settebello had links to Iran or was involved in transporting Iranian oil. The company described the vessel as a civilian merchant ship engaged in lawful international trade, asserting that it should not have been treated as a hostile or military target while operating in international waters.

According to the statement, the tanker had remained stationary for approximately ten days before the incident and had not engaged in any manoeuvres that could be interpreted as evasive or threatening. The company argued that this raises serious concerns about the necessity and proportionality of the force used during the operation.

Beyond the immediate fatalities, the ship manager warned of broader risks to global maritime security, noting that unclear rules of engagement in busy shipping lanes could endanger civilian seafarers. It also highlighted the potential environmental consequences had the vessel’s fuel or cargo been breached, warning that a spill could have caused significant ecological and economic damage.

IOS Marine concluded by urging international maritime authorities and governments to conduct a full and independent inquiry into the incident. The company said establishing the facts is essential for maintaining trust in global shipping safety and ensuring protection for civilian crews operating in increasingly volatile maritime regions.

Also Read: Seven Killed, Nine Injured In Dubai Bus Crash Involving Indian Workers