Trump makes big statement, says Iran targeted ‘Indian ships’ near Hormuz Strait using…

US President Donald Trump on Friday alleged that Iranian drones targeted Indian ships leaving the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump described the alleged drone attack as “totally unacceptable” and accused Iran of threatening commercial shipping in the region.

The statement comes amid rising tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over the safety of international shipping routes near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors.

Where Did the Incidents Take Place?

The reported incidents occurred in and around the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. Over the past four days, three commercial vessels carrying Indian crew members came under attack in the region.

The attacks have raised alarm among maritime authorities and governments because the Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy supplies and international trade. Any disruption in the area can have far-reaching economic consequences.

How Were Indian Seafarers Affected?

Several Indian sailors were caught in the attacks. On June 8, the Palau-flagged oil tanker Marivex, carrying 24 Indian crew members, was disabled after an attack. All crew members were later rescued safely.

However, the situation turned tragic on June 10 when the tanker Settebello, also carrying 24 Indian sailors, was struck. Three Indian crew members lost their lives in the incident.

A day later, on June 11, the Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker Jalveer, carrying 20 Indian sailors, also came under attack. The series of incidents has increased concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working in the Gulf region.

How Has India Responded?

India has strongly protested the attacks. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time this week and expressed deep concern over the incidents.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had lodged a formal protest with the American side after the attack on the tanker Settebello. New Delhi stressed the need to ensure the safety of civilian shipping and prevent further loss of life.

The developments come as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, raising fears of wider instability across the Gulf region.