Ship Attacks: Trump Blames Iran, India Summons US Envoy

The development comes hours before United States President Donald Trump alleged that Iran attempted a drone attack on “Indian ships” in the Strait of Hormuz. “Their (Iranian) totally rebuffed Drone attack last night against Indian Ships leaving the Hormuz Strait is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE,” he said in a social media post, without providing details or evidence.

The US envoy had earlier been summoned on Wednesday following an attack on the Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello off the Oman coast. A third vessel was attacked on Thursday, making it the third such incident this week.

In a statement, the ministry of external affairs said, “The US Chargé d’Affaires, Jason Meeks, was summoned to the ministry of external affairs today. A strong protest was lodged with him regarding the continuing attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, which have already resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of three Indian lives.”

“The ministry once again conveyed its deep concern over the use of lethal and deadly force against civilian shipping. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the safety, security and stability of international maritime commerce in a sensitive region at a difficult time. The US Chargé d’Affaires was requested to convey India’s strong concerns to his authorities and to ensure that US forces operating in the region take all necessary measures to prevent the loss of civilian life,” it said.

Three Indian seafarers were killed in the attack on Settebello, while several others were rescued from multiple vessels targeted during the week. Another vessel, MT Jalveer, was attacked near the Oman coast, with all 20 Indian crew members rescued.

The US Navy has acknowledged “disabling” two Palau-flagged merchant ships, alleging violations of a blockade on Iranian ports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to raise India’s concerns at the G7 Summit in France on June 16-17, including the safety of Indian seafarers amid the incidents.

Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified.”

“This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The Modi Government stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin. 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 said.

The MEA earlier described the situation as “worrisome” and said India expects the attacks on commercial vessels to cease.