Three Indian sailors killed in US strike on ship, minister says
"Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified".
A deadly US strike off the coast of Oman has left three Indian sailors dead, prompting grief in New Delhi and a formal diplomatic protest over the attack on a commercial vessel.
“It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello,” Sarbananda Sonowal said in a statement, referring to the strike on the vessel a day earlier.
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“Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified”.
India’s foreign ministry summoned a top US diplomat in New Delhi after the US attack yesterday on MT Settebello to lodge “a strong protest”.
(Footage: US Central Command)
On 8 June, Omani authorities mounted an airlift to remove 24 Indian sailors from the MT Marivex after a US strike hit the Palau-flagged tanker.
Images shared on social media by the Forward Seamen’s Union of India showed the drama of the rescue, with crew members lifted from the ship by helicopter while thick black smoke poured from the bridge and accommodation cabins.
Mr Sonowal said the government stood “firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour”.
“I have directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites,” he added.
