The Indian government has lodged a strong protest following the deaths of three Indian seafarers due to US military strikes on the oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman. The US Central Command stated that the vessel was targeted for allegedly violating a blockade on Iranian ports and failing to comply with instructions. This incident has raised tensions between India and the US, especially as Indian seafarers represent a significant portion of the global maritime workforce.
In addition to the MT Settebello, two other Indian-crewed tankers were reportedly struck by US missiles this week. The Indian government is closely monitoring its flagged vessels in the region and has called for an end to such attacks, emphasizing the need for dialogue to restore peace and stability amid escalating military actions in the area.
Watch for India's diplomatic maneuvers in response to the escalating tensions, especially regarding the safety of its seafarers. The government's call for dialogue may lead to renewed discussions on maritime security and regional stability, impacting future US-India relations.