**Title: US Maintains Hormuz Blockade Amid Indian Protests Over Seafarer Deaths**
In a recent development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reaffirmed the United States' commitment to enforcing its blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, despite significant protests from India over the deaths of Indian sailors in a US military strike on a commercial vessel. The conversation between Rubio and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took place on Saturday, as reported by the US State Department.
During the call, Rubio emphasized that all commercial vessels must comply with orders issued by US forces operating in the Strait of Hormuz. He asserted that violations of the blockade would not be tolerated, indicating a firm stance from Washington regarding maritime operations in the region.
The backdrop to this diplomatic exchange involves a recent incident where US forces targeted three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which reportedly included crew members from India. One of the strikes, which occurred on the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers. The US justified its actions by claiming that the vessel had breached the blockade aimed at Iranian ports and had not adhered to directives from US military personnel.
In response to the attacks, the Indian government summoned the US charge d’affaires, Jason Meeks, on two occasions last week to formally express its strong objections. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "tragic and avoidable loss" of civilian lives, stating that the use of lethal force against civilian shipping is "unacceptable" and undermines the safety of international maritime trade.
Despite the ongoing tensions, both the US and India have historically characterized their relationship as one of trust and strategic partnership. Rubio had previously referred to India as one of the United States' most important global allies during a visit to the country last month.
However, the US State Department's statement following the phone call did not acknowledge the fatalities, which has drawn criticism from Indian lawmakers. Opposition leader Shashi Tharoor expressed his shock at the lack of condolences or regret from the US, questioning the sensitivity of a so-called "friend" in light of the tragic incident. Another senior Congress leader, Manish Tewari, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the absence of empathy in the US response.
As domestic pressure mounts on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration to adopt a more assertive stance towards the US, Modi is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump at the upcoming G7 summit in France. The outcomes of this meeting may play a crucial role in shaping the future of US-India relations, particularly in light of the recent maritime incident and the ongoing enforcement of the US blockade in the strategic waterway.
The situation remains fluid, with both nations navigating the complexities of their partnership while addressing the repercussions of military actions in sensitive international waters.