Indian Sailors Killed in US Military Attack in Gulf of Oman: Latest Updates
Three Indian sailors were tragically killed after the US military targeted a tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The Palau-flagged MT Settebello was attacked for not following American forces' directions, resulting in the deaths of the sailors. India's Shipping Minister expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured that the bodies of the deceased sailors would be repatriated soon. The US Central Command stated that the strike was necessary as the tanker violated an American blockade by attempting to transport oil from Iran.
The Indian government took action by summoning the deputy head of the US mission in Delhi following the incident. This is the second time this week that a vessel with Indian crew has been targeted by the US military in the Gulf of Oman. The Marivex, another Palau-flagged oil tanker with Indian crew, was also hit by US forces earlier in the week. The ongoing conflict has led to the US blocking access to Iran's ports after Tehran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas supplies.
The US military has disabled multiple vessels and redirected others since initiating the blockade in April. The Indian government has called for an end to the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region. The Forward Seamen's Union of India has been reaching out to the families of the deceased sailors to inform them of the tragic news. Tensions between Iran and the US continue to escalate, with both countries exchanging strikes and putting strain on a fragile ceasefire agreement reached in April.
President Donald Trump has threatened to take strong action against Iran for delaying a peace deal and accused them of playing Americans for fools. The conflict between the US and Iran began in February and quickly escalated, involving Israel, US-allied states in the Gulf, and Lebanon. The situation remains tense, with no signs of easing tensions between the two countries. Stay updated on the latest developments by following BBC News India on social media platforms.