Three Indian seafarers, initially reported missing, have been found dead after a vessel was attacked by US forces off the coast of Oman on Wednesday, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said. Calling it a “tragic” loss, the minister said the bodies of all three missing sailors have been recovered.
“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 their bodies have been located and identified,” he said in a post on X.
The minister said he has directed officials to ensure the “immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and the swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites.”
The Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello had a total crew of 28 members, including 24 Indian nationals and four foreign nationals—two Pakistanis, one Ukrainian, and one Russian—when it came under attack in the Gulf of Oman.
The US military said it targeted the vessel after it allegedly failed to follow instructions and was carrying oil from Iran.
It was initially reported that while 21 Indian sailors were rescued, three seafarers—identified as deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya, and chief engineer Patnala Suresh—remained missing.
“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,” the minister added.
The incident occurred after US Central Command forces used precision munitions to strike the oil tanker off the coast of Oman for allegedly violating an ongoing blockade on Iranian oil.
India reportedly summoned the US Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Jason Meeks, after the second such ship attack in three days, and lodged a strong protest.
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
The MEA also described the incident as “deeply worrisome” and said it was a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. It added that the Embassy of India in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation.
The Ministry of External Affairs said that the continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region.
The ministry reiterated its call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region in keeping with international law must be restored at the earliest,” the MEA said.
