US downs Iranian drones in Strait of Hormuz despite peace deal progress

The United States reported downing multiple Iranian drones in the Strait of Hormuz early Saturday. These drones were reportedly launched in an attempt to strike commercial ships transiting the waterway. This incident occurred just hours after both Iran and the US indicated that a deal to end the Middle East war was nearing completion. The interception follows weeks of difficult negotiations between Tehran and Washington, mediated by Pakistan, which have been characterized by threats and exchanges of fire despite a fragile truce established in April. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the drone launches and subsequent interception.

The US military struck three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman this week, resulting in the deaths of three Indian sailors. The attacks targeted Palau-flagged ships, with US forces stating they were disabling vessels violating a blockade against Iran by attempting to transport Iranian oil. One ship with 24 Indian sailors was disabled, and all were rescued by the Omani military. Another vessel, the Settebello, was struck, killing three Indian sailors, while the remaining 21 were rescued. A third tanker was also disabled. The Indian government summoned a senior US diplomat to demand an explanation. These incidents occur as US President Trump and Iranian officials express optimism about extending a ceasefire, highlighting the ongoing risks for seafarers.

Three Indian sailors have died following a US military strike on a Palau-flagged oil tanker off the coast of Oman. The US military stated the vessel was attacked on Wednesday after failing to comply with directions. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed learning of an "incident" involving a vessel near Shinas port but did not specify details about Indian crew or the nature of the issue. The Forward Seamen's Union of India has begun informing the sailors' families of their deaths. This incident occurs amidst ongoing tensions and exchanges of strikes between Iran and the US, which has also led to US forces blocking access to Iran's ports and intercepting numerous vessels. The Indian government has called for an end to targeting commercial shipping.

Republican Congressman Rob Wittman described the US killing of three Indian sailors off the coast of Oman as a "very, very unfortunate incident." He stated that the US military is investigating to determine the exact circumstances of the event. Wittman expressed condolences to the families of the deceased sailors. He emphasized that the US military is looking into the matter to understand what occurred and to avoid similar incidents in the future. The congressman made these remarks on Thursday.

India has lodged a strong protest with the United States after three Indian seafarers were killed in US military strikes on the oil tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman. US Central Command confirmed its aircraft fired missiles at the vessel, alleging it violated the US blockade of Iranian ports and failed to comply with instructions. The incident occurred on Wednesday, with the ship sailing under the flag of Palau. The Indian government confirmed the discovery of the bodies of the three deceased crew members on Thursday. India's foreign ministry condemned the attack and called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace in the region. This is the first fatality since the US imposed its blockade, and it follows two other US strikes on Indian-crewed tankers this week.

India has summoned a senior US diplomat after US forces attacked a Palau-flagged vessel, the Settebello, in the Gulf of Oman. The ship, carrying 24 Indian sailors and transporting Iranian oil, was struck on Tuesday evening. US Central Command stated the strike was "precision" and occurred because the crew failed to comply with instructions. The Omani navy rescued 21 Indian sailors, but three remain missing. India's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the violence, calling for an end to attacks on commercial shipping. The UN's International Maritime Organization also condemned acts endangering seafarers and shipping safety.

An Indian sailor, Patnala Suresh, was among three Indian nationals killed when the US military struck the oil tanker MT Settebello near the Gulf of Oman. The US stated the strike was to enforce a blockade on Iran-linked shipping, claiming the tanker ignored warnings and carried Iranian oil, a claim disputed by the vessel's managers. Suresh's wife, Patnala Bhargavi, is mourning his death, which occurred shortly before their planned 15th wedding anniversary. The incident has caused widespread grief in India, with families seeking answers and the return of the sailors' bodies. India has lodged a strong protest with Washington and is working to repatriate the deceased.