New Delhi : India has lodged a strong protest with the United States following a military operation by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) off the coast of Oman, in which Indian seafarers were affected. The incident involved a Palau-flagged oil tanker, M/T Settebello, which was targeted during the operation.
According to CENTCOM, the vessel was struck with precision munitions in its engine room for allegedly violating sanctions by attempting to transport oil from Iran.
Following the incident, India summoned US Charge d’Affaires Jason Meeks on Wednesday. Additional Secretary (Americas) Nagaraj Naidu conveyed India’s deep concerns, stressing that the safety and welfare of the country’s large seafaring community remains a top national priority.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers across global waters, particularly in the Persian Gulf and West Asia. He said a strong protest was lodged with the US side over the incident and concerns were clearly communicated regarding the safety of Indian nationals onboard.
The Ministry emphasized that the safety of commercial shipping and civilians must be ensured and that such attacks should cease immediately. India also reiterated its demand for unhindered navigation under international law and the protection of maritime trade routes.
In a statement, the MEA said that of the 24 Indian crew members onboard the vessel, 21 have been rescued so far, while three Indians are reported missing. The Indian Embassy in Oman is coordinating with local authorities and closely monitoring the ongoing search and rescue operations.
On the other hand, US Central Command stated that the action was taken after the vessel allegedly violated sanctions by attempting to transport oil from Iran. It said the ship was disabled using precision strikes on its engine room.
CENTCOM also claimed that eight vessels have been disabled, 134 redirected, and 42 humanitarian vessels allowed safe passage since the start of the blockade.
India has reiterated its call for de-escalation, diplomatic resolution of conflicts, and ensuring safe and uninterrupted navigation through critical maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with international law.