India on Friday summoned a senior US diplomat for the second time this week. New Delhi protested attacks on commercial vessels near Oman that killed Indian nationals. The incident has heightened tensions as maritime security concerns grow around the Strait of Hormuz.
According to official sources, India summoned US Charge d’Affaires Jason Meeks to the Ministry of External Affairs. The move followed reports that US forces targeted vessels operating off Oman’s coast. Indian authorities said at least three Indian seafarers were killed in the attacks.
Earlier this week, New Delhi had already lodged a formal protest with Washington. An Indian foreign ministry official stated that three vessels carrying Indian crew members were struck. Although the ships sailed under foreign flags, they employed Indian nationals on board.
Meanwhile, the US Central Command said it disabled three tankers accused of transporting Iranian oil. The vessels included the Guinea-Bissau-flagged M/T Jalveer and the Palau-flagged M/T Marivex and M/T Settebello. US officials said the action formed part of ongoing enforcement measures linked to the regional conflict.
The attacks come amid escalating tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM said nine vessels have been disabled since the blockade began in April. The US also reported redirecting 135 ships while allowing humanitarian aid vessels to pass. The latest incident has intensified diplomatic pressure as regional instability continues to disrupt global shipping routes.