Tensions Rise Over US Attacks on Merchant Ships with Indian Crew
The United States reaffirmed its stance on enforcing a blockade against Iranian ports during a recent conversation between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The discussion came after the tragic deaths of three Indian seafarers aboard vessels affected by US military actions, which Jaishankar criticized as unjustifiable.
This communication occurred late Friday, following the Indian government’s request for the US chargé d’affaires, Jason Meeks, to discuss the recent US strikes on merchant ships that employed Indian crew members. One particular incident involved the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, which was attacked on June 9, resulting in the loss of three Indian lives.
The US State Department’s summary of the conversation did not acknowledge the fatalities or express any sympathy for the grieving families, which added to the frustration felt in New Delhi. After the talks, Jaishankar took to social media to voice India’s strong objections to the US Navy’s actions in the Gulf, asserting that such attacks on commercial vessels are unacceptable.
The Secretary of State emphasized that all commercial ships must comply with US directives to maintain peace and security in the Strait of Hormuz. He also warned against violations of the blockade and illegal transport of Iranian oil, stating these actions would not be tolerated.
This exchange highlights ongoing strains between the US and India, particularly after the impact of significant trade tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which strained diplomatic relations. While some issues have been addressed through negotiations, tensions still linger.
Criticism of the US response has been widespread in Indian political circles. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed astonishment over the lack of condolences from US officials following the fatalities. He raised questions about US policies towards merchant vessels with Indian crew members and the use of lethal force against them.
Former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal also criticized Rubio’s remarks, suggesting they indirectly justified the deaths of the Indian sailors and questioned the US’s role in disrupting peace in the region.
In the past week, US forces targeted three foreign-flagged vessels with Indian crew members off the coast of Oman, leading to significant public concern in India. Oman’s military successfully rescued 65 Indian crew members from these attacks.
In response to the situation, the Indian External Affairs Ministry summoned Meeks twice within the week to lodge a formal protest. The ministry voiced deep concern over the use of deadly force against civilian vessels, emphasizing the importance of protecting the safety and security of international maritime operations in a turbulent region.
The incidents underlined India’s plea for US forces to adopt measures that prevent civilian casualties, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
