Key facts
- Three Indian sailors were killed in a US military strike on a commercial oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The US cited alleged sanctions violations and the vessel's uncooperative nature for the strike.
- India has strongly protested the action and demanded an apology, which the US has not provided.
- Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar conveyed India's condemnation to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- The incident occurs as leaders gather for the G7 summit in France, with President Trump and Prime Minister Modi in attendance.
Tensions between India and the United States have escalated following the deaths of three Indian sailors in a US military strike on a commercial oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident has been met with outrage in India due to the US government's perceived lack of apology and condolences.
The US military conducted the strike, alleging the vessel was in violation of sanctions and had been uncooperative. India's Foreign Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, communicated India's protest to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating such actions against commercial shipping are unjustified. Rubio reportedly remained unrepentant, justifying the blockade and refusing to offer condolences, further straining relations.
Prime Minister Modi is attending the G7 summit in France, where he is expected to discuss the matter with US President Donald Trump. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi accused the prime minister of remaining silent and subservient to the US, while families of the deceased sailors demand answers. Analysts suggest the incident has widened a "trust deficit" between the two nations.
President Trump landed in Geneva for a digital signing ceremony between Iran and the US, then traveled to France for the G7 summit. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the diplomatic breakthrough and is planning a maritime mission for the Strait of Hormuz. Leaders at the summit are aware the situation remains fragile.