Three Indian Sailors Killed as India Condemns US Actions in Gulf Waters

India has called on the United States to immediately halt attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region after three Indian sailors were killed in a U.S. military strike on a tanker off the coast of Oman, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

The Indian government lodged a strong protest with Washington following the deaths of the seafarers aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello, which was struck as part of ongoing U.S. operations targeting vessels allegedly linked to Iranian shipping networks. Indian officials said the attack marked the first reported fatalities involving Indian crew members since the U.S. blockade of Iran-linked maritime traffic began in April.

Speaking in New Delhi, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had formally demanded an end to the attacks and urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy to restore stability in the region. He noted that three vessels carrying Indian crews had come under attack within a matter of days.

The Indian government also summoned a senior U.S. diplomat for the second time in three days to register its concerns over the incidents. Officials said another vessel carrying Indian crew members was targeted off Oman, though no casualties were reported in that attack.

India’s Shipping Ministry confirmed that the remaining crew members from the affected tanker were rescued, while government agencies have been placed on heightened alert to monitor the safety of Indian seafarers operating in Gulf waters. Authorities are coordinating with the Indian Navy, diplomatic missions, and international maritime organizations to provide support where necessary.

The incidents come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns over the security of international shipping routes near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors. Analysts warn that continued attacks on commercial vessels could disrupt global trade and further strain international relations.

India has reiterated its call for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the broader regional conflict, emphasizing the need to protect civilian seafarers and maintain freedom of navigation in international waters.