Three Indian sailors who were reported missing after a US military strike on an oil tanker near Oman have been confirmed dead, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced. The sailors were among a 24-member Indian crew aboard the tanker Settebello, which was struck in the Gulf of Oman. While 21 crew members were rescued safely, the fate of the remaining three had remained uncertain until the latest confirmation.
India’s embassy in Muscat had been working closely with Omani authorities and rescue teams in the search operation following the incident. The Ministry of External Affairs had earlier stated that efforts were underway to locate the missing sailors, while the government continued to monitor developments and provide assistance to affected crew members and their families.
The United States has defended the operation, claiming the tanker failed to comply with instructions and was allegedly transporting Iranian oil. The incident has heightened concerns over maritime security in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route. India has expressed concern over the attack and called for restraint and diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety of commercial vessels and seafarers operating in the region.
