India protests US Navy attacks that killed three Indian mariners

India has lodged a strong protest with the United States after three Indian mariners were killed in US Navy attacks in the Gulf. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India's objection to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating that such "lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified."

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Spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this evening. I reiterated India’s strong protest at the attacks by the US Navy in the Gulf that killed three Indian mariners. Such lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified.

The incident involved the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello, which was attacked by a US aircraft off the coast of Oman. While 25 crew members, including 21 Indians, were rescued, three Indian seafarers were initially reported missing. Their bodies have since been located and identified, confirming their deaths.

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It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified.

Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal described the incident as a "profound loss to our maritime family." He assured that the government stands with the bereaved families and is committed to supporting the next of kin. Sonowal also directed officials to ensure the swift repatriation of the rescued crew and the return of the bodies of the deceased sailors.

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Describing the deaths as a “profound loss to our maritime family”, Sonowal said the government “stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin”.