NEW DELHI, June 10 (ANI) — India on Wednesday summoned Jason Meeks, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States, to protest the attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman.
The move follows India’s condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello, which had 24 Indian crew members on board. While 21 crew members have been rescued, three Indians remain missing.
Ministry of External Affairs Additional Secretary (Americas) Nagaraj Naidu summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires to formally convey India’s protest over the incident.
India has reiterated its call for de-escalation, protection of commercial shipping, and the restoration of safe navigation through international waters.
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
The ministry added that the continuing attacks on shipping in the region are deeply concerning and are a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict.
“We reiterate our 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 statement said.
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Oman said it was closely monitoring the situation involving the vessel and remained in contact with local authorities.
The incident follows a report from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which said a fire broke out aboard a tanker approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) northeast of Sohar, Oman.
According to UKMTO, the fire originated in the vessel’s engine room and resulted in one casualty, although no further details were immediately available.
The latest attack comes after a Palau-flagged tanker was struck earlier this week, with all 24 Indian crew members aboard rescued safely.
On Tuesday, India expressed gratitude to the Omani government for its assistance in rescuing the crew of the tanker MT Marivex, which caught fire after being struck off the coast of Oman.
“Our embassy, for the rescue purpose, contacted the Omani authorities, who swung into action. We are grateful to the Omani government for its excellent support in rescuing the crew and ensuring their safety. Our mission continues to be in touch with the seafarers,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. (ANI)
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