India Fumes as 3 Mariners Killed in U.S. Strikes on Oil Tankers

Three Indian sailors have died after a U.S. strike on a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman, India's shipping minister confirmed Thursday. The Palau-flagged oil tanker M/T Settebello was targeted after its crew allegedly failed to comply with directions from U.S. forces during a naval blockade of Iran's ports.

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It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. This is a profound loss to our maritime family.

The deceased sailors were identified as Aditya Sharma, Shivanand Chaurasiya, and Patnala Suresh. Families of the victims expressed deep grief and a desire for the full truth. Aditya Sharma had reportedly informed his father that the ship received two warnings from the U.S. Navy in the two weeks prior to the strike.

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We want to know the full truth of what happened. Our hearts are shattered.

India's External Affairs Ministry condemned the ongoing attacks on shipping in the region, calling them "deeply worrisome" and stating that "the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end." The ministry summoned a senior U.S. diplomat to register a "strong protest" and urged the U.S. to "take due note."

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the continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end.

This incident follows two other U.S. strikes this week on tankers in the Gulf of Oman. U.S. Central Command reported disabling the Guinea-Bissau-flagged M/T Jalveer for attempting to transport Iranian oil and the Palau-flagged M/T Marivex for attempting to sail to an Iranian port.

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India had summoned a senior U.S. diplomat to register a "strong protest," adding that India expected the U.S. to "take due note."