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Three Indian crew members missing after the MT Settebello strike in the Gulf of Oman have been declared dead, prompting India to step up repatriation efforts.
MT Settebello attacked in Gulf of Oman (Photo: Social Media)
Three Indian seafarers are confirmed dead following an attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Thursday, describing the incident as a “profound loss” for India’s maritime community.
In a post on X, Sonowal expressed grief over the deaths and assured support to the families of the deceased sailors.
“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 two bodies were recovered,” the minister said.
Calling it a major tragedy for the country’s maritime sector, Sonowal added, “This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The Modi Govt stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin.”
The minister further said that the government had initiated steps to facilitate the return of both the rescued crew members and the mortal remains of those who lost their lives.
“I have directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites,” he said.
All three missing Indian seafarers died after a US military strike on the tanker in the Gulf of Oman.
The United States has said its military carried out a “precision” strike on the vessel after it allegedly failed to follow instructions and was carrying oil from Iran.
Reuters reported, citing Indian sources, that New Delhi had summoned the US Deputy Chief of Mission and lodged a “strong protest” over the strike.
Earlier, uncertainty had surrounded the fate of one of the missing crew members.
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) had told news agency ANI that two Indian sailors had been confirmed dead while one remained missing following the attack near the Strait of Hormuz.
FSUI General Secretary Manoj Yadav said communication with the vessel had been severely disrupted, making verification of details difficult.
“We have been unable to establish a connection with the ship,” Yadav had told ANI. “The latest information I have indicates that two have died, while the Chief Engineer is still reported as missing.”
He said the three affected sailors belonged to Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district and Andhra Pradesh.
Yadav also questioned the circumstances surrounding the strike, saying he believed US naval forces would have been aware of the identities and nationalities of those on board.
Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs had condemned the attack on MT Settebello off the coast of Oman and said that 21 of the 24 Indian crew members onboard had been rescued, while three Indians were reported missing.
The MEA had stated that India’s Embassy in Oman was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities involved in the search and rescue operation.
The ministry had also described the continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region as deeply worrying and reiterated India’s call for immediate de-escalation of tensions and a diplomatic solution to restore peace and stability in the region.
About the Author
Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has more than 10 years of experience in national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
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