On Wednesday, India summoned the United States’ Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi to express strong discontent over an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz, which left three Indian crew members missing. Jason Meeks, the US Chargé d’Affaires, was called in by Nagaraj Naidu, Additional Secretary (Americas) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The MEA condemned the attack, confirming that of the 24 Indian crew members aboard the tanker, 21 had been rescued.
The ministry issued a statement denouncing the assault on the Settebello, asserting that the Indian embassy is actively coordinating with Omani authorities for ongoing search and rescue efforts. It also expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such attacks in the region, urging immediate de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. The MEA emphasized the necessity of restoring safe navigation and commerce in international waters, in line with international law.
The US military confirmed that the tanker was targeted while attempting to transport oil from Iran, violating a blockade. Reports indicated that the vessel had suffered damage to its engine room due to precision munitions fired by American forces after the crew failed to comply with orders. A distress call was made by the Settebello, which experienced a fire in its engine room, prompting local authorities to assist in the crew’s evacuation.
