They are civilians: Seafarers' union moves UN over sailors' deaths in US strikes

The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) has formally called on United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres seeking an independent UN investigation into the deaths of four Indian seafarers allegedly linked to US military actions and conflict-related disruptions in the Gulf region off Oman recently.

The union has called for accountability, justice and compensation of USD 5 million for each affected family, arguing that merchant seafarers are civilian workers who must never become casualties of armed conflict.

"Seafarers are civilians, not casualties of conflict," FSUI said, calling for international action to protect merchant mariners navigating one of the world’s most volatile shipping corridors.

In its representation to the UN, FSUI urged an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding multiple incidents involving commercial vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz and the broader impact of military operations and maritime blockades on civilian shipping safety.

"FSUI has petitioned UN Secretary-General António Guterres for an independent UN investigation into the deaths of four Indian seafarers linked to US Navy actions and blockades off Oman," the organisation posted on X.

"We demand accountability, justice, and USD 5 million compensation for their families. Seafarers are civilians, not casualties of conflict," it added.

THREE INDIAN-CREWED VESSELS STRUCK

The demand follows a series of incidents that unfolded in waters off Oman during escalating tensions in the Gulf.

Maritime security concerns intensified after three vessel-related incidents were reported in quick succession.

The first incident involved MT Marivex on June 8, when a fire broke out aboard the tanker after what maritime security reports described as a suspected strike. All 24 Indian crew members onboard were rescued safely.

The second and deadliest incident occurred on June 10, when oil tanker MT Settebello came under attack in the Gulf of Oman.

The vessel, carrying 24 Indian crew members, suffered severe damage. While most crew members were rescued, three Indian seafarers were later confirmed dead — Chief Engineer Patnala Suresh, Deck Cadet Aditya Sharma and Fitter Shivanand Chaurashiya.

According to reports, emergency distress messages from vessels operating in the area captured the fear and urgency of crews caught amid military escalation.

"This is Motor Tanker Marivex. We have fire on board. The US Navy attacked the engine room. Please help. We have fire on board all crew Indian".

A third case involved Second Officer Nishanth Uirthanathan aboard MT Celestial.

He reportedly fell critically ill while the vessel remained affected by maritime restrictions and operational delays linked to the blockade environment.

Distress calls seeking medical evacuation allegedly went unanswered, and he later died onboard near Oman.

INDIA CONDEMNED ATTACK

The deaths triggered diplomatic concern in India, with New Delhi raising questions over the safety of Indian nationals serving aboard merchant vessels operating in the conflict zone.

FSUI argued that these incidents demonstrated how civilian seafarers had become unintended victims of geopolitical confrontation.

The union reiterated that commercial mariners should receive protection under international norms and demanded compensation for the affected families.

FSUI WELCOMES HORMUZ REOPENING

At the same time, FSUI welcomed the reported US-Iran peace agreement and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, describing the development as a critical step toward preventing further loss of life at sea.

"Mr. President Donald Trump & WhiteHouse, We welcome the historic US-Iran peace deal reopening the Strait of Hormuz, saving thousands of innocent seafarers’ lives. We demand the US pay fair compensation of not less than $5 million to the families of the 4 seafarers killed/died — Patnala Suresh (Chief Engineer), Aditya Sharma (Deck Cadet), Shivanand Chaurashiya (Fitter), — by missile attack & Nishanth Uirthanathan (Second Officer) delayed medical aid due to the blockade. Justice for the victims is key to lasting peace," the FSUI tweeted.

US-IRAN PEACE DEAL SIGNING

The proposed agreement, expected to be formally signed on June 19, includes a ceasefire framework, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and wider efforts aimed at restoring regional stability and global shipping flows.

For India, which has a significant merchant fleet workforce and major energy dependence on Gulf shipping routes, the reopening carries strategic and economic importance.

Globally, renewed maritime access could ease pressure on energy markets and reduce risks to international trade.

As diplomatic efforts move forward, FSUI’s appeal places the spotlight on the human cost of conflict at sea and raises broader questions about the protection of civilian seafarers operating in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.

Whether the UN takes up the request could determine the next phase of accountability and international scrutiny.

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