Three Indian Sailors Killed in US Strike on Tanker
In a tragic incident in the Gulf of Oman, three Indian sailors have lost their lives following a US military strike on their tanker, the MT Settebello. The news was confirmed by India’s Shipping Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal.
The tanker, which flies the Palau flag, was attacked on Wednesday after the US accused it of ignoring commands from American forces. Among the 24 crew members on board, 21 were successfully rescued.
Minister Sonowal expressed his sorrow regarding the incident, stating that arrangements are being made to return the bodies of the deceased sailors to India. In response to this grave situation, the Indian government summoned the deputy head of the US mission in New Delhi for discussions.
The US military alleged that the Settebello was attempting to transport oil from Iran, violating an American blockade. In a statement, the US Central Command highlighted that an aircraft launched “precision munitions” at the tanker’s engine room after the crew did not follow directions repeatedly.
This event marks the second incident involving a vessel with an Indian crew within a week. Earlier, another Palau-flagged tanker, the Marivex, was also hit by US forces for not complying with US instructions. Thankfully, all 24 crew members were rescued by the Omani military.
The US military has been enforcing a blockade on Iran’s ports since April, following tensions in the region. This blockade has led to the disabling of several vessels and the redirection of many others, as part of ongoing efforts to manage maritime security amid rising conflicts.
The Indian government has stressed that attacks on commercial ships and civilian infrastructure in the region must cease. Manoj Yadav, general secretary of the Forward Seamen’s Union of India, mentioned that they are reaching out to the families of the affected sailors to provide support during this difficult time.
He also expressed disbelief that the US was unaware of the crew members’ nationalities, suggesting that detaining ships might have been a better alternative to such drastic measures.
As tensions between the US and Iran continue, the situation remains volatile, with recent strikes adding pressure to an already delicate ceasefire.
