Three Indian sailors on board the Palau-flagged oil tanker, the Settebello, have been declared dead following an attack by US forces on the vessel off the coast of Oman. Of the total crew of 28 members, these three Indian seafarers were reported missing until they were found, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced in a post on social media.

The three sailors have been identified as deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya and chief engineer Patnala Suresh.

“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 government 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,” Sonowal said.

The US Central Command that acknowledged the strike on the vessel said one of its warplanes fired on the tanker in the Gulf of Oman, disabling the vessel as it attempted to transport oil from Iran. It said the “crew repeatedly failed to comply with directions from American forces” and so the US military had to use precision munitions to strike the oil tanker, resulting in casualties.

India has condemned the incident, saying, “Attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation.”

India has also lodged a ‘strong protest’ by summoning Washington’s charge d’affaires in New Delhi. – editor@nrifocus.com