Rubio’s remarks and the limits of strategic empathy

The article analyzes the implications of a U.S. strike in the Strait of Hormuz that killed three Indian sailors and the subsequent controversial remarks by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It highlights Washington's perceived lack of empathy and its prioritization of strategic objectives over the safety of neutral shipping and partner countries' interests. The incident exposes India's structural vulnerability in protecting its large maritime workforce, especially those serving on 'flags of convenience' vessels. While unlikely to rupture the broader India-U.S. relationship, the event has damaged trust and necessitates India to assert its maritime interests in multilateral forums and engage with the U.S. with clear eyes, recognizing the inherent limits of strategic empathy in great-power partnerships.