Three Indian Sailors Killed in US Strike on Vessel near Oman Coast

Earlier this week, three Indian sailors who were earlier reported missing were confirmed dead following an attack on a vessel by US forces off the coast of Oman. Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal showed Oman coast attack as a "tragic" loss and said the bodies of all three sailors have been recovered.

The Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello was carrying 28 crew members when it was struck by another tanker in the Gulf of Oman. It includes 24 Indians and four foreign nationals - two Ukrainians, Pakistanis, and a Russian. As per the US Central Command, the vessel was targeted after supposedly ignoring repeated instructions from American forces. US military strike was suspected of moving Iranian oil in violation of a US-imposed maritime barrier. The strike hit the ship's engine room, triggering a fire and forcing the crew to dump the vessel.

It was initially reported that while 21 Indian sailors were rescued from the vessel. The three seafarers, called as engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya, deck cadet Aditya Sharma, and chief engineer Patnala Suresh, stayed missing.

He said in a post on X, "It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing is now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified."

He added, "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."