Washington DC [US], June 13 (ANI): The US Department of State confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to discuss recent developments in the Strait of Hormuz. During the conversation, Rubio emphasized that all commercial vessels operating in the strategic waterway must adhere to directives issued by US forces.
US Stresses Compliance with Naval Orders
Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott released a statement detailing the discussion. "Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke yesterday with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The two officials discussed recent events in the Strait of Hormuz. The Secretary stressed that all commercial vessels should immediately comply with orders from U.S. forces as they seek to uphold peace and security in the Strait. He underscored that violations of the U.S. blockade and the illicit transport of Iranian oil will not be tolerated," the statement read.
India's Strong Protest Over Fatal Incident
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar later confirmed the conversation on social media, stating that he conveyed India's strong protest regarding the US Navy attacks in the Gulf that resulted in the deaths of three Indian mariners. In a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this evening. I reiterated India's strong protest at the attacks by the US Navy in the Gulf that killed three Indian mariners. Such lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified."
Details of the Attack on MT Settebello
The discussion followed a tragic incident on Wednesday when the US military targeted a commercial tanker, MT Settebello, in the Gulf of Oman. US forces accused the vessel of violating the ongoing naval blockade on Iranian ports. Among the 24 Indian crew members onboard, 21 were rescued, while three were later confirmed deceased. The attack has drawn sharp criticism from India, which views the use of lethal force against commercial shipping as unacceptable.
Diplomatic Channels Activated
In addition to the phone call, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned the US Charge d'Affaires, Jason Meeks, on Friday to lodge a formal protest against the ongoing attacks on commercial vessels off the coast of Oman. The MEA expressed deep concern over the safety of Indian nationals and the broader implications for maritime security in the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and any disruption there could have significant economic repercussions.
