New Delhi, June 12: Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Ismail Baghaei, has made serious allegations against the United States regarding attacks on Indian commercial vessels, which resulted in the deaths of Indian sailors. He expressed sorrow over these incidents, labeling them as violations of international law and maritime security.
In a post on the social media platform ‘X’, Baghaei stated, “The brutal attacks by the United States on Indian commercial vessels, which led to the deaths of three Indian nationals, are clear evidence that the current US policy resembles armed piracy and state-sponsored maritime robbery. We express our condolences to the families and friends of the deceased Indian sailors and extend our deep sympathies to the Indian people and government.”
Baghaei further urged the international community to hold the US accountable for its unlawful behavior, which continuously threatens global peace and security and jeopardizes the freedom of maritime routes.
US forces recently neutralized another tanker attempting to transport Iranian oil. The US Central Command reported that the Palauan-flagged tanker M/T Settabello was targeted when its crew repeatedly ignored instructions from US forces while passing through the Gulf of Oman.
In this incident, 21 of the 24 sailors on board were rescued, while three were reported missing. On Thursday, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the deaths of the three Indians who were initially reported missing following the M/T Settabello oil tanker incident.
The minister expressed his sorrow over the tragic event involving the Palauan-flagged M/T Settabello, stating, “It is unfortunate that after the bodies of the three Indian sailors, initially reported missing, were found and identified, their deaths have now been confirmed.”
He directed officials to ensure the rescued Indian sailors are brought back to India as soon as possible, and that the bodies of the deceased sailors are also returned promptly for the families to conduct final rites.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that they summoned the Deputy Chief of the US Embassy in New Delhi, Jason Meeks, to register their strong protest regarding this incident.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
