Iran has sharply criticized the United States following an attack on an Indian commercial vessel that resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers, describing the incident as a violation of international law and a threat to global maritime security. The remarks came from Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, who accused Washington of engaging in “armed robbery” and “State piracy.”
In an official statement, Baqaei expressed condolences to the families of the deceased sailors and the people of India. “The brutal U.S. attacks on Indian commercial vessels which have killed at least three Indian nationals stand as clear evidence of America’s ongoing policy of armed robbery and State piracy,” he said. He further stated that the international community must hold the United States accountable for actions that threaten global peace, security, and freedom of navigation.
The controversy erupted after a US military strike reportedly targeted an Indian-linked commercial vessel operating in a conflict-prone maritime zone. The attack claimed the lives of three Indian crew members, triggering diplomatic concern in New Delhi and drawing international attention to the safety of merchant shipping in the region.
Iran used the incident to intensify its criticism of Washington’s military activities. According to Baqaei, the attack demonstrated what he described as America’s disregard for international norms governing maritime operations. “We extend our sympathies to the families and friends of the slain Indian sailors and offer our sincere condolences to the Indian people and government,” he said.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also reacted strongly to the deaths of the Indian nationals. New Delhi condemned the loss of civilian lives and emphasized that merchant vessels and their crews should never become targets during military operations. The MEA called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the strike and urged all parties involved in regional conflicts to ensure the safety of international shipping routes.
Indian officials highlighted the country’s longstanding commitment to freedom of navigation and maritime security. The government stressed that commercial shipping is a vital component of global trade and that attacks on civilian vessels pose serious risks to international commerce and the lives of innocent sailors.
The deaths of the three Indian seafarers have sparked concern within India’s maritime community. Shipping industry representatives and seafarers’ organizations have called for stronger safeguards for merchant crews operating in areas affected by geopolitical tensions. They have also sought greater international cooperation to prevent civilian vessels from becoming casualties of military confrontations.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where military operations and security concerns have increasingly affected commercial maritime traffic. Several countries have warned that attacks on merchant vessels could disrupt global supply chains and raise risks for international shipping companies.
Iran’s condemnation and India’s diplomatic response have added a new dimension to the growing debate over the protection of civilian maritime assets in conflict zones. While Tehran has demanded accountability from Washington, India has focused on securing justice for the deceased sailors and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
As investigations continue, the deaths of the three Indian crew members remain at the center of diplomatic discussions. The tragedy has underscored the vulnerability of civilian seafarers caught in geopolitical conflicts and renewed calls for stricter adherence to international maritime laws.
The incident is likely to remain a significant issue in regional diplomacy, with both India and Iran emphasizing the need to protect civilian lives and uphold the principles of safe and secure navigation across international waters.
