The devastating loss of three Indian seafarers in a US military strike against an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has sparked outrage and concerns about the safety of merchant mariners operating in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes. The Indian government has lodged a "strong protest" with Washington, condemning the attack as unacceptable and calling for dialogue to prevent further escalation.
US authorities claim that the MT Settebello was targeted after its crew failed to comply with repeated instructions to divert from Iranian ports, which are subject to a US military blockade aimed at reducing revenue for Tehran. However, Manoj Yadav, general secretary of India's seafarers, questioned whether US forces were aware of the number of foreign nationals on board and suggested that non-compliance could have been met with detention rather than lethal force.
The Indian government is said to be "profoundly concerned" about the loss of its citizens, with shipping and ports minister Sarbananda Sonowal describing it as a blow to the nation's maritime community. The US has acknowledged that 21 crew members from the MT Settebello were rescued, but three were initially reported missing – their bodies later confirmed on board.
This is not an isolated incident; two other Indian-crewed tankers have reportedly been hit by US missiles in recent days. On Monday, the oil tanker Marivex was targeted by a US fighter jet, leading to a fire and the evacuation of its Indian crew. Washington claimed this vessel had previously transported sanctioned oil and was attempting to return to an Iranian port. A third tanker, sailing under the Guinea-Bissau flag with an Indian crew, was also acted against by US forces on Thursday, with allegations of attempting to transport Iranian oil without following instructions.
The incident highlights the growing risks faced by seafarers operating in the Gulf, where a fragile ceasefire and peace efforts are being jeopardised by renewed tit-for-tat strikes between the US and Iran. With approximately one-fifth of global oil transiting through the Strait of Hormuz, India's significant contribution to the world's maritime workforce – nearly 15% of merchant marine labour is Indian – means that its nationals are disproportionately affected by these incidents.
The Indian government has confirmed it is closely monitoring all Indian-flagged vessels and crews in the Gulf, as concerns grow about the safety of seafarers and the implications for global trade. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and risks involved in navigating international waters during times of heightened tension.