National/ International Desk
12 June
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Journalist And Research Analysist
Nutritionist And Health Educator
The Indian government on Thursday strongly raised concerns with the United States after three commercial ships carrying Indian crew members were reportedly attacked near the coast of Oman over the last four days. According to official statements, three Indian sailors lost their lives in these incidents.
On June 8, an oil tanker named Meriwex, sailing under the Palau flag, was damaged in an attack. The vessel had 24 Indian sailors on board, and all of them were rescued safely. Two days later, another Palau-flagged tanker, Settebello, was attacked. Out of the 24 Indian crew members on board, three sailors were killed.
Following the incident, India summoned the acting head of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and formally lodged a strong protest. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers remain the government’s top priority. He stressed that such attacks should stop immediately and called for peaceful dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts.
India also emphasized the importance of ensuring free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. Officials clarified that the affected ships were foreign-flagged vessels and not owned by Indian companies.
The government has begun rescue and evacuation efforts for affected crew members. Families of the deceased sailors will receive financial assistance of ₹10 lakh each through the Seamen Welfare Fund Society.
