The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks to lodge a strong protest over continued US Navy attacks on commercial vessels off the coast of Oman. The diplomatic démarche came after a recent strike on a merchant ship carrying 20 Indian crew members, marking the second time the US mission has been called in over the issue.
The crisis took a tragic turn with the confirmation that three Indian seafarers, previously reported missing, had died in the attack. The development also marks New Delhi’s first public acknowledgement that US military actions have directly targeted vessels carrying Indian crew members.
According to MEA Official release , “A strong protest was lodged with him regarding the continuing attacks by U.S. naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, which have already resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of three Indian lives.”
The Ministry once again conveyed its deep concern over the use of lethal and deadly force against civilian shipping. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the safety, security and stability of international maritime commerce in a sensitive region at a difficult time.
The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires was requested to convey India’s strong concerns to his authorities and to ensure that U.S. forces operating in the region take all necessary measures to prevent the loss of civilian life.
(Pic courtesy: AIR)
