Bhubaneswar: Three Indian seafarers have been confirmed dead following a US military strike on the Palau-flagged commercial vessel MT Settebello off the coast of Oman, prompting a strong diplomatic protest from India and renewed concerns over the safety of civilian shipping in the region.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the incident as a “profound loss” to India’s maritime community and assured full support to the families of the deceased. He said the government is facilitating the repatriation of the mortal remains and ensuring assistance for the rescued crew members.
The vessel was carrying 24 Indian crew members when it came under attack in the Gulf of Oman. Twenty-one crew members were rescued by Omani authorities, while three sailors who were initially reported missing were later confirmed dead after search and identification efforts were completed.
India has strongly condemned the strike and formally lodged a protest with the United States. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised the issue with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating that lethal actions against commercial shipping and civilian seafarers are unjustified.
The Ministry of External Affairs also summoned a senior US diplomat to convey India’s concerns and reiterated the need to protect commercial maritime traffic and civilian lives amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
According to US Central Command, the vessel was targeted during operations linked to an ongoing maritime blockade. However, the incident has sparked international concern over the safety of merchant vessels operating in one of the world’s most strategically important shipping corridors.
The tragedy has intensified debate over maritime security in the Gulf and highlighted the risks faced by thousands of Indian seafarers working aboard commercial vessels in conflict-prone regions. Indian authorities have called for restraint, de-escalation, and a diplomatic resolution to ongoing tensions to ensure the safety of civilian shipping and maritime personnel.
-OdishaAge
