India Protests US Strikes On Ships
India has issued a strong message to Washington after three merchant vessels carrying Indian seafarers were attacked by U.S. forces in the Gulf region. The incidents have raised serious concerns over maritime safety, Indian crew protection and the widening impact of the West Asia conflict.
Indian Seafarers Attacked In Gulf
Three merchant vessels with Indian crew members were reportedly targeted by U.S. forces in separate incidents this week. The vessels included the Palau-flagged Marivex and Settebello, and the Guinea-Bissau-flagged Jalveer.
The Settebello attack resulted in the death of three Indian seafarers, while 21 others were rescued. Indian authorities have confirmed that crew members from the other affected vessels were also evacuated or reported safe.
India’s Message To Washington
India has registered a strong protest with the United States over the attacks and made it clear that such strikes must stop. New Delhi has also stressed that the safety of Indian seafarers and commercial shipping cannot be compromised during military operations.
The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with the Indian Navy, shipping authorities and international maritime agencies to assist affected crew members and monitor risks in the region.
US Navy Strikes And Maritime Safety
The U.S. has said the targeted vessels were linked to attempts to breach restrictions on Iranian oil shipments and had failed to comply with warnings. However, the presence of Indian crew members on board has triggered serious concern in New Delhi.
India has placed relevant agencies on alert and is closely monitoring developments in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. The incidents come amid rising tensions involving the U.S., Iran and regional maritime routes, where commercial vessels remain vulnerable to military escalation.
