The True Post (Web News) Three Indian citizens were killed when an Indian oil tanker was targeted during a US airstrike in the Gulf of Oman, while diplomatic tensions between India and the United States are increasing after the incident.

According to media reports, the US military is maintaining strict surveillance and blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent sea lanes. Meanwhile, an oil tanker, which was later found to be Indian-owned or operated by Indian personnel, failed to comply with instructions given by US forces, following which the US Air Force took action and targeted the ship.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the attack, saying that the ship’s engine room was targeted during the operation to prevent it from moving further. According to US officials, the ship’s crew was issued multiple warnings, but action was taken when the desired response was not received.

According to Indian media, a total of 28 people were on board the affected oil tanker, including 24 Indian citizens. Three people were reported missing immediately after the attack, but were later confirmed dead. All three of the dead were Indian citizens.

The Indian government has reacted strongly after the incident. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Deputy Chief of the US Diplomatic Mission in New Delhi to register a formal protest and sought a full explanation of the incident. Indian officials described the attack as extremely worrying and said that ensuring the safety of commercial ships on international sea lanes is a shared responsibility of all countries.

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the government is taking the matter of the death of its citizens seriously and all possible assistance will be provided to the affected families. In addition, the demand for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident is also being considered.

Defense and international affairs experts say the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman are critical sea lanes for global trade and oil shipments. Recent tensions have led to increased military activity in the region, posing a threat to commercial shipping.

According to analysts, the attack on the Indian oil tanker could not only affect diplomatic relations between the United States and India but also further escalate tensions in the region. The eyes of the international community are now focused on how the two countries resolve the issue and whether a joint investigation into the incident is conducted.