‘Show Courage Before Trump’: Arvind Kejriwal Challenges PM Modi Over Deaths of Indian Seafarers Ahead of Key US Meeting

New Delhi: A fresh political storm erupted on Wednesday after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to raise India’s concerns directly with US President Donald Trump over the deaths of three Indian seafarers in the Gulf of Oman.

The appeal comes ahead of the much-anticipated meeting between Modi and Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, where regional security, trade ties, and energy cooperation are expected to dominate discussions.

In a strongly worded message posted on social media, Kejriwal questioned the Prime Minister’s response to the incident and urged him to take a firm stand during his interaction with the US President.

“Convey our strong protest and anger over the killing of three Indians. India needs a strong Prime Minister,” Kejriwal said, challenging Modi to demonstrate courage while addressing the issue with Trump.

Deaths of Indian Seafarers Trigger Political Debate

The controversy stems from the deaths of three Indian crew members aboard the oil tanker Settebello, which was reportedly struck by US forces near the Gulf of Oman amid enforcement actions linked to a blockade on Iranian oil shipments. The vessel carried a multinational crew, including 24 Indian nationals. Reports indicate that three Indians lost their lives during the operation, triggering widespread concern and diplomatic reactions.

The incident has become a major political issue in India, with opposition parties accusing the government of not responding strongly enough to the deaths of Indian citizens abroad.

Modi Raises Seafarers’ Safety at G7

While opposition leaders have questioned the government’s approach, Prime Minister Modi addressed the issue during his remarks at the G7 outreach session attended by world leaders, including President Trump.

Highlighting the growing instability in West Asia and its impact on global trade, Modi stressed the importance of protecting maritime routes and ensuring the safety of seafarers working in international waters.

He noted that Indian civilians had also lost their lives and emphasized that safeguarding sailors who facilitate global commerce is a shared international responsibility.

The Prime Minister’s comments were viewed by many observers as a clear reference to the recent deaths of Indian crew members, delivered in the presence of the US President.

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India-US Talks Under Global Spotlight

The Modi-Trump meeting is expected to be closely watched, particularly in the wake of the maritime tragedy and rising tensions in the Gulf region.

Apart from regional security concerns, both leaders are expected to discuss energy cooperation, the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, and progress on a proposed bilateral trade agreement. Reports suggest that negotiations on the trade deal are in their final stages, with both sides keen to deepen economic engagement.

Government Already Lodged Formal Protest

The Indian government has already conveyed its concerns through diplomatic channels. New Delhi summoned senior US diplomatic representatives and lodged strong protests following the deaths of the sailors, while also calling for the protection of commercial shipping and maritime personnel.

However, opposition leaders continue to demand a stronger public response from the Prime Minister, arguing that the issue should be raised directly and unequivocally during discussions with President Trump.

As the high-profile bilateral meeting unfolds in France, attention remains focused on whether the tragedy of the Indian seafarers will feature prominently in the talks and what message India chooses to send regarding the safety of its citizens working across the world’s oceans.