MUSCAT/TEHRAN/NEW DELHI, 12June (HS): Iran has strongly condemned a reported United States attack on a commercial vessel operating off the coast of Oman, describing the incident as an act of “state piracy” after at least three Indian sailors were reported dead or missing following the strike.

The sharp reaction came on Thursday after Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused Washington of targeting civilian maritime traffic in regional waters. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the attack on a vessel carrying Indian crew members reflected what he described as a continuing pattern of unlawful military actions by the United States.

In a public statement, Baghaei expressed condolences to the families of the affected sailors and conveyed sympathy to the people and government of India. He argued that attacks on commercial shipping undermine international maritime security and called on the global community to hold those responsible accountable.

The remarks followed reports of an attack on the merchant vessel Settebello near the coast of Oman. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the vessel had 24 Indian crew members on board when it came under attack on Thursday. Indian authorities confirmed that 21 crew members had been rescued, while three Indian nationals remained unaccounted for as search and rescue operations continued.

The Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the incident and said India’s Embassy in Oman was working closely with local authorities and emergency agencies involved in the rescue mission. Officials stated that efforts were continuing to locate the missing sailors and ensure assistance for all affected crew members.

India also voiced concern over the deteriorating security environment in the region, noting that repeated attacks on commercial shipping have become increasingly alarming. The government said such incidents are directly linked to the broader conflict and instability affecting West Asia.

In its statement, India renewed its call for an immediate reduction in tensions and urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy. New Delhi emphasized that a peaceful resolution through negotiations remains essential for restoring stability and ensuring the safety of international maritime routes.

The incident has occurred amid escalating confrontation between the United States and Iran, with regional waterways emerging as a critical flashpoint. Shipping companies and governments have been closely monitoring developments due to concerns over the safety of commercial vessels transiting strategic maritime corridors.

As rescue operations continue off the Omani coast, the incident has added a new layer of diplomatic tension to an already volatile regional situation, while raising fresh concerns about the security of international shipping and the safety of foreign crew members working aboard merchant vessels.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar