Three Indian civilian sailors died after the U.S. Navy fired missiles at a Palau-flagged oil tanker on Tuesday night, June 10, 2024 [1], [3].
The incident underscores the escalating danger for neutral merchant crews operating in contested waters during the U.S. naval blockade of Iran. It also places diplomatic pressure on New Delhi to protect its citizens working on international vessels.
The strike occurred near the Strait of Hormuz or the Gulf of Oman [1], [2]. Among the deceased was Aditya Sharma [3]. While three crew members were confirmed killed [1], one chief engineer remains missing [3]. Other crew members sustained injuries during the attack [3].
A spokesperson for U.S. Central Command said the vessel was operating in violation of the U.S. imposed maritime restrictions on Iran and was therefore targeted [1]. The U.S. said the tanker had ignored the blockade and posed a security threat [1], [4].
In response, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a formal request for the U.S. to cease these operations. A spokesperson for the ministry said, "India urges the United States to halt strikes on shipping and to ensure the safety of Indian nationals on board vessels in the region" [4].
The tragedy has sparked outrage among the families of the victims. A family member of a deceased sailor said, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our compatriots and demand that the Modi government take all possible steps to protect Indian seafarers" [3].
Reports on the exact location of the strike vary between the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz [1], [2]. However, both areas are critical maritime chokepoints currently subject to high military tension.
“"India urges the United States to halt strikes on shipping and to ensure the safety of Indian nationals on board vessels in the region."”
This incident highlights the precarious position of third-party nationals employed by international shipping companies during geopolitical conflicts. Because the tanker flew a Palau flag but employed Indian crew, the strike creates a complex diplomatic friction point between the U.S. and India, potentially complicating India's strategic balancing act in the Middle East.
