Three Indian seafarers are confirmed dead following an attack on the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, Indian 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 bodies have been located and identified," 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. 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.

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.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)