India Demands End to US Strikes After Three Indian Sailors Killed in Shipping Attacks

India has called on the United States to stop military strikes on commercial shipping after three Indian sailors were killed in recent attacks on tankers operating in waters linked to Iran.

The Indian foreign ministry said the deaths mark the first fatalities since the US began a blockade targeting Iran-linked shipping routes on April 13. According to officials, US forces have disabled eight vessels and turned back more than 100 ships during the ongoing operation.

Indian Crew Among Victims in Gulf of Oman Incident

The most recent incident involved the tanker Settebello, which was struck off the coast of Oman. Indian authorities confirmed that three sailors died, while 21 others were rescued by the Omani navy after an emergency distress call and engine fire.

India’s shipping ministry described the deaths as a “profound loss,” and confirmed that Indian diplomats summoned a US official in New Delhi to express strong concerns over the attacks.

US Military and Ship Operator Dispute Claims

US Central Command said the strike targeted the vessel after it failed to comply with instructions and was allegedly involved in transporting Iranian oil. However, the ship’s operator rejected the claim and demanded an independent investigation, stating the tanker had no link to Iran.

The International Maritime Organization has also condemned any action that endangers seafarers, warning of risks to global shipping safety as tensions escalate in the region.