 on Thursday confirmed that three Indian seafarers have died following an attack on the Palau-flagged){kind=link}
India flags serious concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the Gulf region
June 11, 2026: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday confirmed that three Indian seafarers have died following an attack on the Palau-flagged commercial vessel MT Settebello near the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of Indian crew members operating in the volatile Gulf maritime corridor. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, India has lodged a strong protest with the United States over the incident and expressed deep concern over repeated attacks on commercial vessels in the region.
India stated that out of 24 Indian crew members onboard, 21 have been rescued while three remain missing as search and rescue operations continue with the assistance of Omani authorities. The government also summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks to formally convey its objections and demand clarity over the circumstances of the attack. The MEA described the situation as “deeply worrisome” and stressed that commercial shipping must remain protected under international law.
Reiterating its position, India called for immediate de-escalation of tensions in the region and urged all sides to pursue diplomatic dialogue. The ministry said ongoing attacks on shipping are a direct consequence of the wider conflict and must be stopped to ensure peace and stability. India also emphasized the need to restore free and secure maritime navigation through international waterways without disruption.