**Three Indian Sailors Killed in US Strike on Oil Tanker in Gulf of Oman**
In a tragic incident, three Indian sailors have been confirmed dead following a US military strike on the oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of commercial shipping in the region.
The MT Settebello, a Palau-flagged vessel, was reportedly targeted after the US military accused it of failing to comply with directives from American forces. According to a statement from the US Central Command (Centcom), the strike involved the use of "precision munitions" aimed at the ship's engine room after the crew allegedly ignored repeated instructions. Of the 24 Indian crew members aboard, 21 were successfully rescued, while the bodies of the three deceased sailors are expected to be returned to India soon, as confirmed by India's Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The Indian government has reacted swiftly to the incident, summoning the deputy head of the US mission in New Delhi to express its concerns. Minister Sonowal described the event as "deeply unfortunate" and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
This incident marks the second time this week that a vessel with an Indian crew has been involved in a US military action. On Monday, the US forces targeted another Palau-flagged oil tanker, The Marivex, under similar circumstances. All crew members of The Marivex were rescued by the Omani military.
In light of these events, the Indian Embassy in Oman has reported learning of yet another "incident" involving a vessel near Shinas port, although details regarding the nature of this incident or the presence of Indian crew members remain unclear.
The backdrop to these military actions is a growing tension between the US and Iran, particularly following the US blockade of Iranian ports after Tehran effectively closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This strait is a critical passage for approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas supplies. Since the onset of the blockade on April 13, US forces have reportedly disabled eight vessels and redirected 134 others.
The Indian government has consistently advocated for the cessation of attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region. Manoj Yadav, general secretary of the Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI), expressed disbelief that the US military was unaware of the nationalities of the crew members aboard the targeted vessels. He suggested that detaining non-compliant ships would have been a more appropriate response than resorting to strikes.
As tensions between Iran and the US continue to escalate, both nations have engaged in reciprocal military actions, further complicating an already fragile ceasefire established in April. Recent statements from US President Donald Trump have indicated a willingness to intensify military pressure on Iran, citing delays in peace negotiations.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments as both countries navigate their complex and volatile relationship. The loss of the three Indian sailors underscores the risks faced by commercial maritime crews operating in conflict-prone waters, raising urgent questions about maritime security and the protection of civilian lives amidst geopolitical strife.