India, June 11 -- The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Washington, with India lodging a strong protest over the attack.

The sailors were among 24 Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello when the vessel was struck in the Gulf of Oman.

While 21 crew members were rescued, the three missing seafarers were later confirmed dead after search and recovery efforts.

Announcing the development, Sonowal expressed condolences to the families of the deceased sailors and said the government was taking steps to repatriate the bodies and the surviving crew members.

He added that officials had been directed to ensure the immediate return of the rescued crew and the mortal remains of the deceased sailor...