Three Indian seafarers are among three crew members who have died after an oil tanker, Settebello, was attacked by US forces off the coast of Oman, the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) confirmed on Thursday, June 11.
The union said that deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya and Chief engineer Patnala Suresh were killed in the strike.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack and expressed concern over repeated incidents targeting shipping in the region.
Deck cadet Aditya Sharma (image credit: Theorist photo)
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the continuing attacks on maritime routes were “deeply worrisome” and linked them to the ongoing regional conflict. He called for an immediate reduction in tensions and urged countries involved to pursue diplomatic efforts to restore peace and stability.
The MEA also emphasised that commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure should not be targeted, while stressing the importance of maintaining free and secure navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law.
US claims strike was a precision operation. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said it carried out a “precision” strike on the Settebello as the vessel was travelling through the Gulf of Oman. The US military claimed the crew did not comply with instructions issued by American forces.
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The strike was reportedly part of wider US military operations linked to tensions between Washington and Tehran amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The attack has raised concerns over the safety of commercial shipping routes in the region, particularly in areas crucial for global energy transportation.
The deaths of the Indian seafarers have added to diplomatic tensions, with New Delhi seeking accountability and calling for measures to protect civilian vessels and crew members operating in international waters.
