External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has conveyed India’s strongest diplomatic protest to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the deaths of three Indian seafarers in attacks involving the US Navy in the Gulf region. The incident has triggered serious concern in New Delhi and intensified calls for greater protection of commercial shipping routes.
In a direct conversation with Rubio, Jaishankar reiterated India’s objections to the attacks and stated that “such lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified.” The remarks came after three Indian mariners lost their lives in a US military action targeting vessels operating near the Gulf of Oman amid heightened regional tensions.
The Indian government has also summoned the senior-most US diplomat in New Delhi to formally register its protest. Officials conveyed India’s deep concern over repeated attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian crew members and stressed the need to safeguard civilian seafarers operating in international waters.
According to official statements, the incident involved the tanker MT Settebello, which was carrying a large contingent of Indian sailors. Of the 24 Indian crew members on board, 21 were rescued, while three were later confirmed dead. The vessel was among several ships targeted during ongoing US enforcement operations linked to maritime restrictions around Iran.
The US military has maintained that the vessels were allegedly involved in transporting Iranian oil in violation of American restrictions. US Central Command stated that action was taken after the vessel failed to comply with instructions issued by naval forces operating in the region.
India, however, has emphasized that merchant ships carrying civilian crews should not become targets of military operations. The Ministry of External Affairs described attacks on commercial shipping as deeply worrying and linked them to the broader instability in West Asia. New Delhi has renewed its call for immediate de-escalation and respect for international maritime norms.
The deaths of the Indian sailors come at a time when tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf shipping lanes remain high. These waterways are among the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying a substantial share of global oil supplies. Any disruption poses risks not only to regional security but also to international trade and energy markets.
The latest incident has added strain to an otherwise broad strategic partnership between India and the United States. While both countries continue to cooperate closely on trade, energy, maritime security and regional stability, New Delhi has made it clear that the safety of Indian nationals remains a top priority.
Families of the deceased sailors are being assisted by Indian authorities, and efforts are underway to bring their mortal remains back to India. The government is also closely monitoring the safety of other Indian crew members operating in the Gulf region.
As diplomatic engagement continues, India has reiterated that commercial shipping must remain protected from military confrontations and that accountability is essential whenever civilian lives are lost in conflict zones.
