US Navy Strikes on Indian-Flagged Vessels: Diplomatic Row Over Hormuz

The US Navy has attacked three merchant vessels, including Indian-flagged ships, near the Strait of Hormuz—a critical international maritime corridor. The Settebello incident resulted in confirmed deaths of three Indian seafarers: Patnala Suresh (marine engineer), Shivanand Chaurasia (UP), and Aditya Sharma (Himachal Pradesh). India's Ministry of External Affairs emphasized 'high importance to the welfare of seafaring community' and lodged formal protests. The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global oil trade; tensions threaten international maritime commerce. The US claims vessels breached its blockade, but India contests the legitimacy of unilateral action in international waters. This escalates tensions in West Asia and raises questions about maritime law enforcement and proportionality. India has alerted seafarers to exercise caution. The incident reflects larger geopolitical tensions and challenges to international maritime freedom. India's firm diplomatic response protects national interests and seafaring community rights under international law.