A U.S. airstrike on an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman has reportedly resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals, escalating tensions between Washington and New Delhi.
According to reports, the U.S. Air Force targeted the vessel after it allegedly violated restrictions linked to the ongoing military blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. The strike disabled the tanker by hitting its engine room.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the operation, stating that the vessel’s crew failed to comply with repeated instructions issued by American forces before the attack was carried out.
Indian media reported that the tanker was an Indian vessel carrying a crew of 28, including 24 Indian citizens. Three crew members who had been missing since the strike have now been confirmed dead.
In response, India summoned the deputy chief of the U.S. mission in New Delhi and formally lodged a strong protest over the attack on the tanker, demanding an explanation for the incident.
The development has added a new layer of strain to diplomatic relations amid growing security tensions in the region.
