India Protests US Over Attacks on Indian Seafarers in West Asia
India's Diplomatic Protest Against US
A file image of MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal. (Photo: @SeherMirzaK/X)
New Delhi, June 11: India has expressed strong discontent to the United States regarding a series of assaults on commercial ships with Indian crew members in West Asia. This diplomatic action was taken after three Indian nationals lost their lives in an attack on the vessel Settebello near Oman’s coast.
During an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi on Thursday, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, confirmed the protest, stating that India has communicated its serious concerns to the US and demanded an immediate halt to the attacks, as well as unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.
“Following the attack on the Settebello, we lodged a formal protest with the US. The American Charge d'Affaires was summoned, and we expressed our grave concerns regarding the ongoing attacks. The safety of our seafaring community is paramount, and these assaults must cease,” Jaiswal remarked.
Out of the 24 Indian crew members aboard the Settebello, 21 were rescued, while three tragically lost their lives. Additionally, the Indian Embassy in Oman reported another incident involving a vessel near Shinas port earlier on Thursday.
Jaiswal characterized the ongoing attacks as alarming and a direct consequence of the regional conflict. “The persistent attacks on shipping in this area are extremely concerning and stem from the ongoing turmoil. These assaults must stop, and we advocate for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability,” he stated.
The spokesperson clarified that the three vessels involved in the recent incidents are foreign-flagged and not owned by India. Two are registered under Palau, while the third, attacked on Thursday, is flagged by Guinea. Jaiswal also mentioned that two of these ships are under OFAC sanctions, and one is categorized as non-compliant.
Jaiswal attributed the attacks to the US Navy's presence in the region, highlighting a series of incidents that have endangered Indian seafarers. The first incident occurred on June 8, when a fire broke out on the MT Marivex, which was carrying 24 Indian crew members south of the Strait of Hormuz.
India has consistently emphasized the significance it places on the safety and welfare of its seafaring community, which is among the largest globally.