India lodged a strong protest with America on the death of 3 sailors in Oman, expressed concern over the safety of Indians.

New Delhi, June 11. The Government of India has lodged a strong protest with the US expressing deep concern over the death of three Indian sailors in the US Army Central Command (CENTCOM) attack on the oil tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in an inter-ministerial briefing on Thursday that this is a very tragic incident and the Government of India stands with the families of the victims. The government is taking all necessary diplomatic steps in this matter.

It is noteworthy that two days ago, Palau flagged oil tanker MT Settebello was passing near the coast of Oman. According to US Central Command, the action was taken against the ship because it was allegedly violating the blockade imposed while carrying oil from Iran. CENTCOM claimed to have disabled the ship’s engine room by hitting it with precision munitions.

Following the incident, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday summoned US Acting Ambassador (Chargé d’Affaires) Jason Meeks. Nagaraj Naidu, Additional Secretary (Americas) in the Ministry of External Affairs, conveyed to the US side India’s serious concerns regarding the safety and welfare of Indian sailors.

Randhir Jaiswal said in the briefing that India gives top priority to the welfare of its vast maritime community. He said, ‘A large number of Indian sailors are employed across the world. A large number of Indian sailors are also present in the Persian Gulf and West Asia. Our embassy and shipping ministry are in constant touch to protect their interests.

Safety and welfare of Indian sailors top priority, such attacks should stop immediately

Jaiswal said that after the attack on MT Settebello, India lodged a strong protest with the US side. He said, ‘We summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires and expressed our deep concern about the ongoing attacks. Also lodged a strong protest against this incident. India has clarified that the safety and welfare of Indian sailors is of top priority and such attacks in the area must stop immediately.

Regional conflict said to be the main reason for the attacks

Randhir Jaiswal said that due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, such incidents are continuously coming to the fore. He said that the attacks on ships are extremely worrying and are directly related to the increasing tension in the region. India believes that no problem can be solved through violence and conflict.

Dialogue and diplomacy is the most effective way to resolve tension

Jaiswal said that India has said that dialogue and diplomacy are the most effective ways to resolve regional tensions. He said, ‘We also made it clear that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way forward for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Also, in accordance with international law, unhindered movement through the Strait of Hormuz should be ensured.