"Several Indian civilians lost lives... safety of seafarers our responsibility": PM Modi expresses concern over Hormuz disruptions in presence of Trump
Evian, June 17
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday raised concerns over the tragic deaths of Indian seafarers in a recent US military strike during his address to G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, who was seated beside him.
Highlighting the severe human and economic toll of instability in the Strait of Hormuz, the Prime Minister strongly advocated safeguarding international maritime trade routes.
"We welcome the progress made in peace efforts in West Asia. This conflict has caused loss of life and property in our friendly countries in the region. Disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz have adversely affected the global economy," PM Modi stated.
Underscoring India's commitment to the global seafaring community, he added, "Several Indian civilians have also lost their lives. The safety of seafarers, who connect nations through global maritime trade, is our responsibility."
"We must ensure that sea routes remain secure and that seafarers can carry out their work without fear," while speaking at the high-level session focused on "Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity" in Evian, France.
The Prime Minister's crucial intervention took place before the leaders of the G7 nations amid West Asia tensions that have jeopardised vital shipping lanes handling a massive chunk of global energy and commercial cargo.
The Strait of Hormuz stands as a pivotal global maritime chokepoint, connecting the Persian Gulf to international waters.
The statement follows a recent maritime incident in the Gulf of Oman, where three Indian nationals lost their lives after US forces targeted the Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello.
The vessel operated with a 28-member crew consisting of 24 Indians, two Pakistanis, one Ukrainian and one Russian, and was intercepted and struck by the US military over an alleged violation of a US blockade while reportedly transporting oil from Iran.
The Settebello is one of three merchant vessels featuring Indian crew members to have been caught in regional maritime incidents recently.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an American, I deeply respect PM Modi raising this issue directly in front of President Trump. The loss of innocent seafarers is a tragedy that transcends politics. India is right to demand accountability - these sailors were just doing their jobs.
This is a classic case of India standing up for its citizens on the world stage. But I have a humble suggestion - why not create a dedicated maritime safety fund for Indian seafarers caught in conflict zones? Prevention is better than damage control after lives are lost. Just my two paise.
A balanced approach from India. The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global energy security, and the loss of any seafarer is unacceptable. PM Modi is right to call for secure sea routes while also acknowledging the need for peace efforts in West Asia. Respect for diplomacy.
It's good that PM Modi raised this at G7, but we need concrete actions, not just statements. The Indian government should demand compensation from the US for the families of those three seafarers who died. Our sailors are the backbone of global trade - they deserve protection, not empty words.
As someone who worked on a ship years ago, this hits close to home. Seafarers are invisible heroes - they're away from families for months, often in dangerous waters. PM Modi speaking up gives me hope that the world will take maritime safety more seriously. Well said, sir.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.