Iran FM Spox Labels US Attacks on Indian Ships as State Piracy

In a post on his X account late on Thursday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei condemned the recent US attacks on Indian commercial vessels, describing them as clear evidence of America's ongoing policy of armed robbery and state piracy. He stated that the attacks, which killed at least three Indian nationals, constitute a violation of international law and threaten global peace and security.

Baghaei extended sympathies to the families and friends of the slain Indian sailors and offered sincere condolences to the Indian people and government. He called on the international community to hold the United States accountable for its lawless conduct, which he said endangers freedom of navigation and continues to threaten global peace and security.

The remarks came amid rising tensions following a series of US attacks on Indian-crewed commercial vessels in waters off Oman. On Thursday, US Central Command reported that an American aircraft fired two Hellfire missiles at the engine room of the tanker Jalveer, alleging the vessel was transporting Iranian oil. Indian authorities confirmed that all 20 crew members were safe and were being evacuated with Omani assistance.

According to Mehr News, the incident highlights ongoing disputes over maritime security and the enforcement of sanctions against Iran. The Iranian spokesman's comments underscore Tehran's position that US actions in the region amount to piracy and aggression.