Three Indian sailors died after a US strike on a tanker off the coast of Oman, India’s shipping minister has confirmed.
Sarbananda Sonowal, the Indian minister of ports, shipping and waterways posted on X and descriped the deaths as ‘unfortunate’.
He said: “It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello.
Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified. This is a profound loss to our maritime family.
The Modi Govt stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin. I have directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites.”
The US military said yesterday that an American aircraft had fired into the engine room of the Palau-flagged vessel M/T Settebello as it attempted to breach the American naval blockade of Iran’s ports with a shipment of Iranian oil. US Central Command said American forces warned the crew before firing on the ship.