All three Indian sailors who were reported missing following a United States attack on the commercial vessel MT Settebello near the Strait of Hormuz have been confirmed dead, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (India), Sarbananda Sonowal announced on Thursday.
In a statement posted on social media, Sonowal said it was “deeply unfortunate” to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged vessel. He confirmed that the bodies of the three Indian seafarers, who had initially been reported missing after the attack, had been located and identified.
“This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The Modi Government stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin,” the minister said.
Sonowal further stated that officials have been directed to ensure the immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and the swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased to India for their final rites.
The confirmation comes a day after India condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MT Settebello off the coast of Oman. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had stated that 21 crew members were rescued, while three Indian nationals were reported missing following the incident.
The incident has sparked concern over the safety of commercial shipping in the strategically important waters near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
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