Tehran Condemns U.S. Strikes After Three Indian Nationals Killed

Iran has sharply criticized the United States following the deaths of three Indian nationals in recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region. Reacting to the incident, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei accused Washington of pursuing a policy of “armed robbery and state piracy” and called on the international community to hold the United States accountable.

In a statement posted on social media, Baghaei said the attacks on Indian-crewed commercial vessels, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least three Indian sailors, were evidence of what he described as America's “lawless conduct.” He also extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and government of India.

The remarks come amid rising tensions in the Gulf following a series of U.S. military operations targeting vessels allegedly linked to Iran. According to Indian officials, three Indian seafarers were killed after a U.S. strike on the tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman, prompting New Delhi to lodge a strong diplomatic protest and demand an end to attacks on merchant shipping.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has called for restraint, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilian lives and ensuring the safety of international maritime routes. The Indian government has also summoned a senior U.S. diplomat to convey its concerns over the attacks.

Baghaei further argued that such actions threaten global peace, regional stability, and the freedom of navigation, urging the international community to respond firmly. His comments add to the growing diplomatic fallout surrounding the incident, which has intensified tensions between Washington, Tehran, and several regional stakeholders.

The developments come as efforts continue to secure a broader ceasefire and diplomatic framework aimed at reducing hostilities in the Middle East, where maritime security has become an increasingly critical concern for global trade and energy supplies.