New Delhi : India has strongly protested to the United States following the death of three Indian seafarers in an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar raised the issue directly with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressing New Delhi’s deep concern over the loss of Indian lives.
According to official sources, Jaishankar conveyed India’s strong objections during a conversation with Rubio, emphasizing that the use of lethal force against civilian commercial shipping is unacceptable under any circumstances. He underscored the need to ensure the safety and security of international maritime trade routes and civilian vessels operating in the region.
The controversy arose after a commercial tanker, MT Settebello, came under attack near the Oman coast, resulting in the deaths of three Indian crew members. The vessel reportedly had 24 Indian nationals on board. While 21 crew members were rescued safely, three fatalities were confirmed, prompting immediate diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Washington.
Following the incident, the Indian government summoned the senior-most US diplomat in New Delhi to formally register its protest. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that attacks causing civilian casualties on commercial vessels raise serious concerns and require a transparent investigation.
According to reports, the United States has maintained that the vessel was suspected of violating sanctions-related restrictions connected to Iranian maritime activities. However, India stressed that the loss of innocent civilian lives remains a matter of grave concern and that measures must be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal expressed condolences to the families of the deceased seafarers and assured that the government would provide all necessary assistance, including facilitating the repatriation of the mortal remains.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia and growing security concerns in key international shipping lanes. India has reiterated its call for restraint, dialogue, and adherence to international maritime norms to ensure the safety of commercial navigation in the region.
The Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring developments and remains in contact with US authorities regarding the matter.