The Congress party expressed disappointment over the lack of an unconditional apology from the US for the deaths of three young Indian sailors in a military strike in the Gulf. Pawan Khera, from the All India Congress Committee, criticized the Indian government for not demanding a stronger stance on the issue. He highlighted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s warning instead of an apology, stating it reflected a commanding tone rather than remorse.
The absence of acknowledgment, responsibility, and apology for the sailors’ deaths was emphasized by Khera. He criticized India’s response, noting the External Affairs Minister’s description of the strike as “not justified” fell short. Khera argued that such language was inadequate for addressing a military strike resulting in civilian casualties, calling for stronger condemnation of the US actions.
India lodged a strong protest through the Ministry of External Affairs against the US naval attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman. The Ministry stressed that these actions are unacceptable and pose a threat to international maritime commerce’s safety and stability in the region. The US Charge d’Affaires was urged to convey India’s concerns to US authorities and ensure measures to prevent further civilian casualties.
