The bodies of two of the three Indian seafarers who lost their lives in the US strike on a vessel off the Oman coast last week were brought back to India on Wednesday, according to an official statement.
The development comes a day after 21 rescued Indian crew members from the Palau-flagged vessel MT Settebello returned safely to the country.
In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Muscat said the mortal remains of Aditya Sharma and Shivanand Chaurasiya had been repatriated to India. Both seafarers were among those killed in the attack on MT Settebello.
The embassy did not provide any update on the mortal remains of the third deceased seafarer, Patnala Suresh. The mission expressed condolences to the bereaved families and said its thoughts remain with them during this difficult time.
Last week, three merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members came under US attacks off the Oman coast. The strike on MT Settebello claimed three lives, while other crew members were rescued.
Following the incident, the Ministry of External Affairs twice summoned the US Charge d'Affaires, Jason Meeks, and lodged a strong protest over the attacks.
Speaking at an outreach session of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the need for safe maritime routes. He said seafarers should be able to carry out their duties without fear or danger. The issue was raised a day before his bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump.
Also read: India protests after three sailors killed in US attack
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