India Summons US Diplomat Over Tanker Strike Off Oman; Three Indian Seafarers Still Missing
New Delhi Lodges Strong Protest After Attack on Commercial Vessel Carrying 24 Indian Crew Members
India has formally summoned the United States’ Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi to lodge a strong diplomatic protest following an attack on the commercial tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman, where 24 Indian crew members were onboard. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 21 Indian seafarers have been rescued, while three remain missing, prompting India to demand accountability and urgent clarification from the U.S. government.
The MEA summoned Jason Meeks, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, after the incident and conveyed India’s deep concern over the safety of its nationals. The ministry described repeated attacks on commercial vessels in the region as alarming and emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation and protection of civilian maritime traffic. India’s embassy in Oman is coordinating closely with Omani authorities on ongoing search-and-rescue operations for the missing crew members.
The vessel, identified as the Settebello, reportedly came under a strike during heightened regional tensions in the Gulf. Reports indicate that the tanker was carrying Indian sailors and suffered severe damage, leading to emergency evacuation efforts. While the United States has been linked in reports to the military action, the full circumstances and justification surrounding the strike remain under scrutiny.
The incident has significant diplomatic implications because India maintains strategic relations with the United States while also prioritizing the safety of thousands of Indian seafarers working on international merchant vessels. The government has reiterated that safeguarding Indian citizens abroad is its foremost concern and has pledged to continue efforts until the missing sailors are located.
The episode also highlights the growing security risks to global shipping routes around the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor for international energy supplies. With tensions remaining high, India has called for restraint and adherence to international maritime norms to prevent further loss of civilian lives and disruption to global trade.
