Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Sunday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over recent US statements following the deaths of three Indian sailors in attacks on commercial vessels near Oman.
In a post on social media, Gandhi alleged that the Prime Minister had remained silent despite the deaths of Indian seafarers and criticised the language used by the United States after the incident. Referring to remarks attributed to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Gandhi claimed that a sovereign nation should not accept what he described as directives from another country.
Congress questions government’s response
Gandhi’s remarks came after Rubio’s conversation with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the deaths of the sailors. According to the US readout of the call, commercial vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz were asked to comply with instructions issued by American forces, while violations of US restrictions on Iranian oil transport would not be tolerated.
The Congress has also questioned whether India should adopt a stronger diplomatic stance following the deaths of the Indian crew members. Party leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge, criticised what they described as an inadequate response from the Centre.
India lodged protest with US
The controversy follows the deaths of three Indian sailors in attacks on vessels operating near Oman. India has formally protested the incident through diplomatic channels, with Jaishankar describing lethal actions against commercial shipping as unjustified. The government has also directed relevant agencies to remain on high alert regarding the safety of Indian maritime assets and seafarers.
The issue has triggered political debate over India’s foreign policy response and the protection of Indian citizens working in international waters.