NEW DELHI: The diplomatic row between India and the United States over the deadly attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello has intensified, with Washington asserting that the vessel ignored dozens of warnings before it was targeted by American forces in the Gulf of Oman.
According to remarks by a US official reported from Washington, the tanker received nearly 60 verbal warnings before the military action was carried out. The official stated that the ship allegedly failed to respond to repeated communication attempts and ignored several visible deterrent measures deployed by US forces.
The warnings reportedly included radio messages as well as demonstrations of military presence by aircraft operating in the area. American officials said fighter aircraft conducted flyovers and deployed warning flares intended to alert the vessel and discourage it from breaching the US enforced maritime blockade. Despite these measures, the ship allegedly continued its course, prompting military intervention.
The strike resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals serving aboard the tanker, triggering strong reactions in New Delhi. India subsequently lodged a formal protest with Washington, expressing concern over the use of force against a civilian vessel and seeking clarity regarding the circumstances that led to the fatalities.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised the matter directly with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during diplomatic consultations. Jaishankar conveyed India’s position that the use of lethal force against civilian shipping was unacceptable and stressed the need for accountability when innocent lives are lost in international waters.
In response, Rubio reportedly defended the American position, stating that the United States would continue enforcing its blockade measures and would not permit attempts to circumvent restrictions imposed in the region. He reiterated Washington’s commitment to maintaining maritime security and preventing violations of the blockade.
The latest explanation from US officials appears aimed at addressing concerns within India and demonstrating that military personnel followed established procedures before launching the attack. By detailing the sequence of warnings and deterrent actions, Washington has sought to argue that force was used only after multiple attempts to secure compliance from the vessel.
Nevertheless, questions remain over the proportionality of the strike and the decision-making process that led to the use of lethal force. Indian officials continue to seek a comprehensive account of the incident, including information on whether alternative measures could have been employed to avoid casualties.
A notable point of contention is that the United States has yet to publicly express regret over the deaths of the Indian crew members. While American authorities have emphasized operational protocols and blockade enforcement, they have not issued a statement acknowledging responsibility for the loss of life or offering condolences beyond standard diplomatic communications.
The incident has drawn international attention as tensions continue to affect maritime traffic in the Gulf region. Shipping companies and maritime experts have warned that escalating enforcement actions could increase risks for commercial vessels operating near sensitive waterways.
For India, the deaths of the three sailors have become a significant diplomatic concern. The government is expected to continue pressing for answers while monitoring the outcome of discussions with US authorities. The case has also renewed debate over the protection of civilian shipping during periods of heightened geopolitical tension.
As investigations and diplomatic exchanges continue, the MT Settebello strike remains a sensitive issue in India-US relations, with both sides seeking to balance strategic interests against concerns over the safety of civilian maritime personnel.