US President Donald Trump has accused Iran of carrying out an alleged drone attack on Indian-linked commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, describing the incident as “totally unacceptable” amid rising tensions in one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump claimed that Iranian forces had launched a drone attack against Indian ships leaving the Strait of Hormuz and warned Tehran to “get their act together, and fast.” The US president made the remarks while also criticizing Iran over reported disagreements surrounding a proposed US-Iran agreement.
The comments came as diplomatic friction between India and the United States intensified following recent attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian crew members in the Gulf of Oman. New Delhi has already summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks twice within a week to protest the use of force against civilian shipping after incidents that resulted in the deaths of three Indian sailors.
According to US Central Command, American forces targeted multiple tankers suspected of violating sanctions-related restrictions and failing to comply with military directives. The US described the operations as precision strikes aimed at disabling vessels by targeting their engineering and steering systems.
Among the vessels affected was the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, where three Indian sailors lost their lives. Another tanker, MT Marivex, carrying Indian crew members, was disabled before rescue operations were carried out by Omani authorities. Reports also indicated that the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Jalveer, carrying Indian seafarers, came under attack in a separate incident.
While Trump strongly condemned the alleged Iranian drone attack, he did not directly address the deaths of the Indian sailors in the earlier strikes. India has reiterated its call for safe and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and stressed the need to protect civilian shipping routes in accordance with international law.
The developments have heightened concerns over maritime security in the Gulf region, where continued instability threatens global trade, energy supplies and the safety of thousands of Indian seafarers working aboard international vessels.
