India summons US charge d'affaires Jason Meeks over attack on tanker off Oman coast as 3 missing, 21 rescued: Report

India on Wednesday summoned US Charge d'Affaires Jason Meeks and conveyed its strong objection over an attack on a commercial tanker carrying 24 Indian crew members off the coast of Oman, according to PTI citing sources. Three of the sailors aboard the vessel remain missing following the incident.

Responding to the development, New Delhi stressed that attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure in West Asia must cease and called for the swift restoration of free and unhindered navigation through international waterways.

"We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated.

The ministry mentioned the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely tracking developments and remains in active contact with local authorities involved in the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts.

The MEA expressed concern over the continued attacks on shipping in the region, saying they were a consequence of the ongoing conflict. It urged all sides to immediately reduce tensions and work towards a diplomatic resolution through ongoing negotiations to restore peace and stability.

The ministry also stressed that attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure should cease and called for the early restoration of free and unhindered navigation and trade through international waterways in accordance with international law.

What did US Central Command say?

The US Central Command confirmed the strike, stating that the vessel had breached the blockade by trying to transport oil from Iran.

"The US Central Command disabled Palau-flagged M/T Settebello as it transited the Gulf of Oman. A US aircraft fired precision munitions into the ship's engine room after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with directions from American forces," it asserted in a statement.

24 Indians aboard MT Marivex rescued

The attack on the commercial vessel Settebello occurred two days after a Palau-flagged ship carrying 24 Indian crew members was targeted by the US Navy while allegedly attempting to bypass the US blockade on Iranian ports.

According to the MEA, the tanker caught fire after being struck during an attack off the coast of Oman, prompting a rescue operation. The vessel was hit by a US missile on Monday, leading to the blaze.

"Our embassy, for the rescue purpose, contacted the Omani authorities, who swung into action. We are grateful to the Omani government for its excellent support in rescuing the crew and ensuring their safety. Our mission continues to be in touch with the seafarers," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

US Apache helicopter downed

The latest developments come amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region, where the United States has carried out airstrikes on Iran and Tehran has responded by launching missiles at countries in the Gulf.

According to Reuters citing US official, the American attack helicopter whose crash triggered the latest exchange of fire was brought down by an Iranian one-way attack drone. Trump said the two crew members aboard the aircraft were unharmed.

The US military said the helicopter crashed in waters off the coast of Oman while conducting a patrol mission at about 3 am on Tuesday (2300 GMT Monday). It added that the crew was located and rescued by a Navy-operated surface drone.