For Navy crew, shooting at Indian fishermen was last resort
DoD photo of the small fishing boat fired on by a Navy supply ship Monday.
July 18th, 2012
06:40 AM ET

For Navy crew, shooting at Indian fishermen was last resort

By Larry Shaughnessy

When Navy security personnel onboard USNS Rappahannock opened fire on a small boat near Dubai on Monday, killing one Indian fisherman and injuring three others, it was the final step in an effort to protect the ship without resorting to force.

The incident is not without controversy. One of the Indian fishermen onboard the small boat told Reuters they did not get any warnings before they were fired on.

"We were speeding up to try and go around them and then suddenly we got fired at," the injured fisherman said. The U.S. military is investigating the incident.

"We certainly regret the loss of life in this incident…. There were, in fact, warning measures that were taken based on what we know now. ," said Pentagon spokesman George Little.

The incident lasted just three minutes, according to a Central Command document obtained by CNN's Security Clearance. The document illustrates how the incident escalated in a quick succession of steps.

In Navy parlance, the USNS Rappahannock is an "underway replenishment oiler,” meaning it can supply warships while they are sailing at sea.

Notice it's USNS not USS, which means it is owned by the military, but it's not a warship. It has a civilian commander or "master" and a mostly civilian crew. The only Navy sailors onboard are the security detail protecting it.

The Navy's security strategy has changed drastically since October 2000 when a small boat packed with explosives pulled up beside the USS Cole and blew up, killing 17 American Sailors and nearly sinking the destroyer.

"It's constantly on your mind," said retired Vice Adm. Pete Daly, who was in charge of a destroyer squadron when the Cole was attacked. "I would say that the Navy, as a result of the Cole, significantly reevaluated what the Navy calls the waterborne threat."

Daly said the Navy was caught off guard by the Cole attack.

"When a ship was in a harbor, we thought we were doing a very good job of the landward threat. You had gates and guards and barbed wire. But from the seaward side, not as much as we should have."

As for Monday's incident, the Department of Defense said it appears the Rappahannock's crew acted properly.

"Based on what we know now, a series of warning measures were issued to the oncoming vessel. Those warnings were not heeded. And the vessel was fired upon," Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said Tuesday.

The small boat first got the attention of the Rappahannock when it was about five nautical miles away, according to the military document. When it was about 1,200 yards from the Navy ship's starboard side (point #2 on diagram) it turned toward the Rappahannock and the ship responded by beginning the series of warning measures.

"The Navy ship will never start at direct lethal fire. There's a whole rules of engagement that occurs that has different levels," Daly said.

Daly spelled out how those warning measures work, starting with nonlethal means such as radio calls using common civilian channels, loudspeaker announcements, and flares and lights to get attention.

In the case of the Rappahannock incident, within a minute of the boat approaching, the security team "initiated first level of defensive, nonlethal warning procedures," according to the military document. The vessel was closing in and was within 900 yards but "ignored the warning and continued toward" the Navy ship.

Daly said the next level is to fire warning shots, shooting into the water ahead of the encroaching boat but without putting the boat or passengers in danger. The Rappahannock security team initiated a "next level of defensive, nonlethal procedures" one minute later, but those were ignored by the approaching boat that was just 150 yards away, according to the Central Command document.

At this point, according to Daly, the crew will fire. This occurred when the boat was just 100 yards from the Rappahannock (point #5 on the diagram), with a .50-caliber machine gun. The intent of the direct fire is not to harm people, it is to stop the approaching boat, Daly said.

But the Navy acknowledges when it opens fire on another vessel, there is a risk people could get hurt or killed. Daly said that's why direct fire is the action of last resort.

"This is a very deliberate and responsible graduated response," Daly said.

Because this was a civilian crew other than the security team, it would not have been the master of the Rappahannock who ordered the security team to open fire on the approaching boat.

In this case, the senior Naval officer leading the security team would have given the order to fire, explained Daly.

After Rappahannock opened fire, the boat "slowed for the first time and turned to port, passing astern of the Rappahannock. The Navy crew then re-initiated nonlethal procedures with the boat, which was within 90 yards of the naval vessel. The boat then stopped and the Rappahannock "goes to full speed to separate from the vessel.

Unfortunately, this kind of incident may happen again as the Navy sends more ships into the crowded Persian Gulf that is rife with tension.

When a ship's underway, coming in or out of harbors or in narrow passages" you risk having close encounters, Daly said.

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Filed under: Navy
soundoff (2,417 Responses)
  1. sirrahad

    I've got to take the Navy on their word for this one, and I agree that these poor dumb fishermen just effed up, and royally. But it never fails to amaze me how many we-will-destroy-you knuckleheads come out of the woodwork for these forums, and who probably never even served in the military.

    July 18, 2012 at 5:38 pm | Reply
  2. Southern Boy

    If i was the Captain of the US Navy ship I would have ignited the missiles all the way to New Delhi and taken the Parliament Bldg out. Pooooof !!!!

    July 18, 2012 at 5:30 pm | Reply
  3. Shashi Ramachandran

    We Indians have been helping Iran beat the American sanctions for years. Now we are helping them snoop on US Navy ships. That's who we are and what we do !!! Backstabbing is our middle name.

    July 18, 2012 at 5:27 pm | Reply
    • Indian

      These sanctions are imposed by US and not by UN. India is free to make its own decision and what is good for its own country.

      USA will never follow India, if India wants some sanction on Pakistan.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:30 pm | Reply
      • Jaceb Goerge

        India will do as we americans tell it. When we say jump...your response should be how high, Sir. Hope that is clear.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:34 pm |
      • Jaceb Goerge

        India putting sanctions? On what? Rats? cobras? cows?.....ROFL !!!! A few taliban teenagers came and f$cked you up....and you want to impose sanctions? Had some khat? Ha ha HA Ha hA ha H A !!!!!!!!!

        July 18, 2012 at 5:36 pm |
      • noodlebrain

        Jaceb George, I am an American and I say, Eff.U.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:48 pm |
    • hemchandra

      There is nothing immoral in India not complying with sanction on Iran. You should know that American has been arming Pakistan for decades to the point of creating a very credible threat to India from Pakistan with complete made in USA arms. USA have been indirect threat to India before 9/11. USA has deprived India of developing technologies. India is only looking at its economic interest when it buys oil from Iran. Don't bash India trying to be ultra western.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:35 pm | Reply
    • hemchandra

      India is a force in South Aisa. India is not Pakistan or Afghanisthan that it will be in any way scared of America. And you are talking about a country that does not believe in escalating tension and wars. It is one of the few countries not including America that believes in diplomacy rather than war. The fact that people like you talk about harming India or making it do what you want is highly naive.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:40 pm | Reply
      • Westmoreland09

        Don't try to tell me what India is. I know India, I have been to India, I have studied and India is no Pakistan.....it is worse. Who are you kidding. Pakistan can take you out in 8 seconds flat per CIA with their nukes. Now go pick up cow dung.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:45 pm |
      • sirrahad

        I have known and worked with a lot of Indian people, mostly engineers. My experience has been that Indian people are affable, honest, good natured and driven to succeed. One cannot fault anyone for these qualities. There is also an element in Indian culture, as with many other Asian nations, of courtesy and respect toward others that we in the US would do well to take as an example.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:58 pm |
    • hemchandra

      No one can argue with fake Pakistani pretending to be American. For Americans to have hatred toward Indians is naive because India pose no threat to any country as its not India's policy to occupy.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:48 pm | Reply
    • oneworld

      Most of he comments are by Pakistani muslims using Indian aliases. Shows the hatered still lingers whether they live in the US or anywhere else.

      July 18, 2012 at 9:40 pm | Reply
  4. oneworld

    In other papers the Indian sailors said they received no warning. They also said they know what warning shots are. Seems to me like there was an inexperienced trigger happy gunman on board the US Navy ship. This is not US waters, but UAE waters so there are bound to be craft from other countries. If the US tries to use brute force on everyone, you are just going to make enemies by the country and will probably have most of Asia against the US and there will come a time when the military balance will tip.

    July 18, 2012 at 5:27 pm | Reply
    • Southern Boy

      Anyone tries to come close to American Armed Forces with intent to harm....we will take make you disappear. We are good friends but nasty enemies.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:32 pm | Reply
      • Oh Please!!

        ROFL.. Tell me one country that America is friends with? Not even Canada. There are no friends for America in the world. America is like a bully in a school yard. Biggest and strongest but not the brightest. Nobody can build a friendship while showing off muscle and being bellicose. America has to mature. That is the difference between a 250yr old country and a 2000 year old country.

        July 18, 2012 at 9:37 pm |
      • Oh Please!!

        "Anyone tries to come close to American Armed Forces with intent to harm"

        What made you conclude that there was an intention to harm?

        July 18, 2012 at 9:39 pm |
  5. davecu

    Be berry, berry quiet!
    I'm on the trail of some rascally fishing boat that hasn't seen me yet!
    Perhaps if I fire at the them from 100 meters away, with no warning, I'll take them by surprise.

    Hogwash!!

    July 18, 2012 at 5:27 pm | Reply
  6. Jessie k

    I don't the Indian makakas are getting the message on forum. Don't f$ck with americans. Comprende? Ok, Bien.

    July 18, 2012 at 5:25 pm | Reply
    • hemchandra

      Lol India is not Iraq or Iran or Pakistan.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:29 pm | Reply
      • Jaceb Goerge

        We know that. India is worse. Now git and go wash dishes in some cheap restaurant.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:38 pm |
      • Rob

        Then why is India permitting her citizens to probe US Navy ships in an unflagged skiff, while they continue to do business with Iran, while most of the civlized world has sanctions forbidding such business to stop the Iranians from building nukes?

        July 18, 2012 at 5:45 pm |
    • hemchandra

      Why should India comply with US sanction as its not backed by UN. And second, America has Pakistan for decades and Pakistan is India's no.1 enemy. So its America which should learn morality before aiding a terrorist nation.

      July 18, 2012 at 6:00 pm | Reply
  7. guest

    I am routinely on small pleasure craft in NY harbor. I have a simple rule: if a ship is big or owned by the government, I stay very far away and never point the nose of my boat at that ship. Real simple. These guys were within 500 hundred feet of a big gray ship (trust me, they don't know the difference between USN and USNS). That is insanely close and insanely stupid. They deserve the reaction they got.

    July 18, 2012 at 5:15 pm | Reply
    • tom

      How "insanely stupid" of you to say that these guys got what they deserved. I don't blame the navy, they had no idea whether it was a threat or not. But for you to say that these poor fishermen "deserved it" just shows that you are not a member of the human race.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:24 pm | Reply
      • davecu

        A fishing boat with THREE outboards? Hmmmm

        July 18, 2012 at 5:29 pm |
      • guest

        If you say I have no compassion for their suffering, I will grant you that - I don't. But, be clear, I said they deserved "the reaction they got," not the results. The reaction was the firing of a weapon at their boat. I did not say they deserved "it," whatever "it" may be. If I run straight at a cop, anywhere in the world, and I get within three feet, do I expect to get punched, billy clubbed, or shot? What do you think would happen if I did that in India or Dubai? I would get shot. They deserved the reaction they got.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:36 pm |
  8. CueBallSTL

    "When Navy security personnel onboard USNS Rappahannock opened fire on a small boat near Dubai on Monday, killing one Indian fisherman and injuring three others, it was the final step in an effort to protect the ship without resorting to force."

    I'd hate to be on the Navy's bad side when they DO resort to force!

    July 18, 2012 at 5:10 pm | Reply
    • Remmett70

      basic comprehension would be nice. Effort to try and protect the ship without force. the final step is force.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:18 pm | Reply
      • CueBallSTL

        You are the one lacking comprehension. Read it again. Let's look at it this way:

        "...killing one Indian fisherman and injuring three others...was the final step in an effort to protect the ship without resorting to force." So, killing someone is apparently not resorting to force. Comprende?

        July 18, 2012 at 5:23 pm |
  9. jyves95

    So, the US Navy said so.. Fair enough... Any video to prove it? I'm surprised that a US military boat does not have any camera on and nobody even recorded this with their phone. So far, the Navy claims that they followed procedures. Just prove that they did it by releasing all videos where we can see the warning shots, the officer yelling on PA and if any fishermen were able to see these warnings, or if these warnings were given in less than 3 seconds, giving no chance for that boat to escape. We don't even know if these fishermen knew that it was a military boat. Maybe the sun blocked them. They could have just saw the shape of the boat. We don't know anything. Everything else is just speculation.

    So.. Just release those videos so we can end this debate. Show me the smoking gun.

    Oh Yeah.. Blame people who come too close to US ships because they can't recognize one.. They're easy to spot.. They have huge signs, flags floating around warning that it's a US military ship, not counting all those red, white and blue lights flashing around the ship... Why do submarines have books and computers to recognize ships? Can't they just know that this is a US, French, Russian, English or Chinese ship, and define the class just by looking at the periscope?

    LOL... You don't speed in front of a cop. Nevertheless, people get caught because the sun blocked their visibility. they just saw a shadow and did not realized that it was a cop..

    July 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm | Reply
    • Pppa

      No more caffeine for you, dude...

      July 18, 2012 at 5:10 pm | Reply
    • Remmett70

      Fisherman in that area, know what a military vessel looks like. Big gray with hull numbers painted on. At best they may not have known which country, but fisherman in that area a well aware of what military ships look like. I've spent many months floating around that body of water. They don't come that close unless they want to.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:16 pm | Reply
    • davecu

      With respect, PUTZ!

      Let's see what results from EVERYONE'S investigation.
      Just because these were US employees doesn't make them automatically wrong.

      Perhaps, if the 'peaceful' residents of this area were less violence prone there would be less violence.

      I don't buy into the "My country, right or wrong" mindset, but I'm tired of being a target for existing.
      Or for resentments that go back to the crusades.

      If the US and Israel didn't exist, what would be the reason for kiIIing. History shows there WOULD be kiIIing.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:19 pm | Reply
    • tom

      My God people are so judgmental. These were probably poor ignorant fishermen who don't have much of an education. Since you don't know the facts beyond what is written here but you are so strong in your conclusions, in my book that makes you an A $ $...

      July 18, 2012 at 5:27 pm | Reply
    • USA591

      ummmm, jyves95, clearly you haven't spent any time around any sort of commercial shipping or even a working harbor. It's pretty obvious what's Navy and what's not–from any country! Like others have posted, everyone who's on the water recreationally or commercially knows to stay far, far away from any Naval vessel much less HEAD RIGHT FOR THEM! Assuming the Navy's account is factual, those guys were really, really dumb. Feel bad for the guy who was killed–the Skipper of that vessel bears full responsibility.

      July 18, 2012 at 10:06 pm | Reply
  10. Mr. Potato Head

    I am wearing a hat. It is a good hat. Everyone should wear hats. Hats are awesome. Not as awesome as putting things in your rear though. Especially if you put ducks up there.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:53 pm | Reply
    • CornPone

      I'm too chicken for that ducks thing. You are a daredevil.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:18 pm | Reply
  11. Karl Franz

    That's my old ship! Good 'ole Rappaho. You show 'em what ya got!

    July 18, 2012 at 4:52 pm | Reply
  12. tman

    small boat see big boat.. small boat leave.. ... dont have to be an indian to figure that one out....god bless the usa

    July 18, 2012 at 4:50 pm | Reply
  13. mattski

    "Hey we're gonna try an attack on the Rappahannock. Let's take the boat with only one engine working. "

    July 18, 2012 at 4:48 pm | Reply
  14. Me

    Keep in mind I'm a true land lover biggest body of water I have driven a boat on was the Red River. A couple of years ago went to the Gulf of Mexico for business. Our fishing boat captin decided to give all of us a real show. You can not get anywhere near a US ship with out a light and sound show, we didn't get fired at but did get to meet a nice US coast guard cutter (?). I'll stick with the Red and the CG Aux. Thank you very much.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:47 pm | Reply
  15. Valkyrie

    I served in the US Navy during the end of the Cold War. I can tell you that if this were a Russian Navy ship and a small craft approached it as this one did, the boat would have been blown apart and all on board killed. Moreover, the world would have heard nothing about it.

    I'm sorry for the loss of life... but these are dangerous times we live in, especially for the US Navy.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:45 pm | Reply
    • tom

      Unfortunately, I don't think the Navy has much of a choice in these matters. I am sorry for the loss of life though. What is sad is the level of callousness from some of the posters here.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:29 pm | Reply
  16. hemchandra

    Looks like incident with horrible miscommunication. But some of the comments are too hostile against India. India has right to ask questions on killing of its citizens like any country have. There have been many blunders by US armed force to give them clean chit without any investigation. You cannot rule out "trigger happy" situation with some wanting to get one up with enemies. So only investigation will tell what happened.

    India is not an enemy country. In fact, India and US has much more in common. The diversity, democracy and middle class. For knowledge of those believing India is toast if they mess with America. They need to know Indian navy is among the few stronger navies in the world. But confrontation between India and US is highly unlikely given their strategic relations.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:42 pm | Reply
    • Amit

      If it was an Indian warship, I believe they would have responded in a same way. It looks like the fishing boat ignored all the warnings.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:04 pm | Reply
    • typical American

      Hemchandra, you're correct, India is a far more natural ally than enemy to the US. Ignore the antagonism, some embarrassing percentage of the commenters probably can't distinguish between Pakistan, the definition of 'frenemy', and India, with whom we've had some economic friction, but nothing worse, for a long, long time.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:53 pm | Reply
  17. Bill Gannon

    That is the goofiest looking fishing boat I have ever seen

    July 18, 2012 at 4:39 pm | Reply
    • frontgate

      Aahhh, let me guess, you live in Paducah?

      July 18, 2012 at 4:46 pm | Reply
    • Kerrie O

      Indian terrorist vessel

      July 18, 2012 at 5:14 pm | Reply
  18. Chaostrain

    I'm thinking pirates testing the waters. Fail!

    July 18, 2012 at 4:38 pm | Reply
    • Oh Please!!

      @Chaostrain
      I am thinking another ignorant American.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:48 pm | Reply
  19. Hahahahahahahahahahaha

    So then...........maybe it was just a Navy "fishing boat" that shot at the Indian "fishing" boat. All's fair when "fishing". Hahahahahaahahahahahaha

    July 18, 2012 at 4:36 pm | Reply
  20. joshua

    so here is this huge boat.... 10 miles off the port of some middle eastern country and then some how there is this little boat who is parallel with our navy ship originally and then suddenly some how decides to turn right towards the middle of the ship and say there were no warning shots... wow... this is the most BS story i ever heard. they were in open ocean... what fishing boat goes near a U.S military navy boat? Did they want to take pictures or something? Are you serious? Come on now... This is absurd.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:21 pm | Reply
    • Rosie

      Target practice....who cares?

      July 18, 2012 at 4:36 pm | Reply
    • tom

      How about we target practice by painting a big bulls eye on your big rear end Rosie?

      Your comment is just brilliant. It helps so much our service people to receive support overseas from the local people when the locals read comments like yours. What a patriot you are!

      July 18, 2012 at 5:32 pm | Reply
  21. LovinYU

    American cowards with tiny fingers on big buttons.. sick!

    July 18, 2012 at 4:15 pm | Reply
    • moxin

      You're an idiot.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:20 pm | Reply
      • jake

        me not idiot, me horney

        July 18, 2012 at 4:31 pm |
    • Frank Jimmies

      It's more like a little lever.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:23 pm | Reply
    • Flatsguide

      1 little, 2 little, 3 little Indians!

      July 18, 2012 at 4:34 pm | Reply
    • frontgate

      So, the Navy should let any unidentified boat approach without any concern?
      Not smart.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:43 pm | Reply
  22. rock on

    Obviously they wanted to die. The moment warning shots were fired, they should have either stopped the boat completely or get away as fast as they can. They chose to flank the ship which was obviously a bad idea. They should be glad that they only have one dead.

    Perhaps they were hired to test the response protocols to assess any weaknesses in how the U.S. Navy deals with approaching ships. I'm sure they won't try that again.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:10 pm | Reply
    • tom

      Wow another genius and mind reader! "Obviously they wanted to die."

      July 18, 2012 at 5:33 pm | Reply
  23. Dan Klein

    Apparently, Indians make better cab drivers than boat drivers.

    July 18, 2012 at 4:03 pm | Reply
    • samtheman

      and j ew s are better fried or smoked

      July 18, 2012 at 4:22 pm | Reply
      • nn

        good one!

        July 18, 2012 at 4:31 pm |
      • Mansee Grace

        Me likee. Oven baked...

        July 18, 2012 at 4:50 pm |
    • Josh

      Go Frak yourself sam.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:28 pm | Reply
    • ronniq

      they dont make good cab drivers either

      July 18, 2012 at 5:13 pm | Reply
  24. Jafo19D

    Horribly written article CNN. Not a Navy guy but I did stay at a Holiday Inn and served tow 2 tours in Iraq and am very familiar with escalation of force. Stuff happens and it's too bad the guy died. What I don't understand is the anger of some Americans towards the Indians (dot not feather). We have a common enemy which is Pakistan, India has never done us any harm except in the for of annoying call centers.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:59 pm | Reply
    • hemchandra

      Indians did not ask you give them call center jobs. They were given jobs by American firms.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:33 pm | Reply
    • frontgate

      Excellent article CNN

      July 18, 2012 at 4:47 pm | Reply
    • tom

      Pakistan has not done anything to us... they have actually cooperated in hunting down Al Qaeda. You are very ignorant.

      Blame the annoying call centers on annoying people like Mitt Romney, et. al. who are happy to export our jobs overseas.
      The Indians are no different from you, they jump on a opportunity just like you do. We need to stop blaming other countries for our problems – we've done it to ourselves.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:36 pm | Reply
      • Jafo19D

        Al Qaeda and the Taliban have refuge in Pakistan. Let's nt forget that OBL was hiding there as well. The Paki intelligence unit is a front for terrorism. I hope India obliterates Pakstan some day.

        July 19, 2012 at 7:31 am |
  25. Get Real

    50 cal rounds have tracers.
    You could have Jenna Jameson sitting on the helm making out with you and still notice a couple of tracers going across the bow.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:53 pm | Reply
    • Quagmire

      No.....No I couldn't. Giggity, giggity, giggity!

      July 18, 2012 at 4:34 pm | Reply
  26. MotoJB

    ...you don't get that close to US military ships for starters, and you don't ignore warning shots. I'm pretty confident they got one (or some). Given that these folks come from a country where people are constantly dying in human stampedes, one can be left to assume stupidity was to blame.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:46 pm | Reply
  27. PEACE-NOT-WAR

    At least some new organizations care to cover other side of the story. Shame on you CNN.
    http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-18874755

    July 18, 2012 at 3:46 pm | Reply
    • PEACE-NOT-WAR

      Correction- "news" not new

      July 18, 2012 at 3:47 pm | Reply
      • Jon

        Did you ever consider that maybe these guys were test runners? Maybe another Cole incident was planned but they wanted a dry run with innocent faces. The Indians may not have even known they were lab rats (or it was just idiocy) Something like this, "Here is $5,000, see how close you can get to that ship. If they ask what you want if you can pull along side play stupid, we want to know what is tops side on that ship. Thanks, see you later". I would never pull up on any armed naval vessel from any Nation, I dont care if they were yelling jibberish at me, Bears growl, I do not keep aproaching and asking the bear what it is saying.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:08 pm |
    • Frank Jimmies

      The CNN article says about as much as the BBC article. The crew of the skiff and the injuries are the only additional pieces of information, their excuse is listed at the beginning of the CNN article.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:52 pm | Reply
    • Schmedley

      Sorry, but even after reading the BBC article, I still do not find any fault with what the Navy ship did. It occurred in a region very well known for piracy and terrorism.

      There is absolutely no reason a fishing boat should have approached another ship that closely unless they are pirates or have a bomb on board.

      They sped up to try to go around? Think about it, if you are on the Navy ship, there is a small boat that is speeding towards you in a region known to have pirates and terrorists, are you going to let them get close?

      Sorry, but you're just wrong about this.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:58 pm | Reply
      • Oh Please!!

        @Schmedley If you still can not find navy fault after reading the BBC article you are not very bright my friend. Bascially those fishermen are saying they were not warned.. If that's true then what the navy did is reckless at the least..

        And BTW please buy a map or go to maps.google.com. Pirates infested area is atleast 1000Miles away from the coast of Dubai. This incident did not happen on the high seas it happened just off the coast of Dubai near the port. Also terming anything and everything in the middleast as prone to terrorist activity is pure ignorance.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:32 pm |
      • Uncle Dave

        @OhPlease right, because Iran isn't anywhere near the UAE. –What's that? It's right around the corner? And the UAE actually DOES have known Al Qaeda sympathizers living there? And Iran actually is in RANGE of one of those "fishing boats?" –Sorry, my producer was talking to me. Nevermind.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:55 pm |
    • frontgate

      Other side? You're joking, right.
      Unidentified boat approaches U.S. Navy ship and they get blasted. That's the only side I see.
      Other side? hahahaha

      July 18, 2012 at 4:50 pm | Reply
    • Tek

      Really? What else did you expect them to say? Yeah we heard the warning shots, but we thought they were joking?
      100 Yards away from an ARMED boat? Come on!?!? Speeding up to go around the boat? So many of these "facts" are strange to say the least.

      July 18, 2012 at 5:10 pm | Reply
  28. FriskyDingo

    The is simply no way a US flagged vessel allows a small boat to approach within 100 yards without delivering several warnings to the small boat to stay away. The Indians were warned, through several means, all of which are standard when operating in international waters. I'm certain the Rappahannock attempted to warn the fishing vessel using radio, the ship's whistle (loud enough to be heard over any engine noise), possibly flares, and warning shots.

    It is obvious that the men on the small vessel were either completely inexperienced and had NO CLUE what they were doing, or they approached the Rappahannock maliciously. These are the only two possible explanations. There is no way an experienced crew would EVER approach to within 100 yards of a ship painted grey (typical of military vessels ONLY) unless they were up to something.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:42 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      No worries, someday an american vessle will have a tryst with destiny .... Indian navy

      July 18, 2012 at 4:28 pm | Reply
    • Flatsguide

      Hope the Indian oarsmen don't get hurt, or gey holes in their sails.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:37 pm | Reply
  29. weezer

    Hey "The Truth": I've read the nautical rules - all of them. Know Chapman's front to back. Smaller boat actually had right-of-way, but due to the size difference made the right choice and passed behind the stern of the larger vessel.

    Neither one of us were there, but I suspect the smaller boat initially thought he could pass in front (and sped up to accomplish that - as reported). He realized he wouldn't make it, and changed course to go behind. As I said, I've been in the same scenario multiple times. Two things to remember: This was a freighter - looked like a freighter, not a warship - so the guy's personal radar didn't go off that he was approaching danger. According to the timeline stated, it all took place in three minutes. Not enough time for Mr. fisherman to realize what was going on and take evasive maneuvers. I still say they were trigger-happy and could have made better choices.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:39 pm | Reply
    • Frank Jimmies

      Maybe when it realized that he couldn't get in front, he should have stopped or slowed down? Oh, he didn't do that?
      Maybe he should have turned around and kept a larger distance than 100 meters? Oh, didn't do that either.
      Maybe he should have had the radio on, if there was one, to hear the hailing?
      Maybe he should have recognized a grey color scheme and a security detail scrambling to investigate and observe his ship while manning weapons?
      180 seconds is plenty enough time to realize that getting within 300 feet of an unknown vessel is not a good idea.
      Do you have the right-of-way at military roadblocks, as well?

      I repeat, maybe YOU should find a different way. Might save you some half-inch holes.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:45 pm | Reply
      • shut the h@@k up!!

        Let's see what Americans will post when in the near future China will increase it's navala presence in the Caribbean as It feels some Caribbean country is posing a threat to the "free world" and start shooting American tourist/fishing boats.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:07 pm |
      • PEACE-NOT-WAR

        You are giving details like this whole thing unfolded in front of you. Ever heard of people LYING?

        July 18, 2012 at 4:13 pm |
      • Frank Jimmies

        Oh, sorry. I didn't consider that the Navy was lying.
        Or was it the Indian skiff?

        Wait, who's lying? Frankly, it doesn't matter. The boat was close, they disabled the motor. The security crew has no reason to let it get close without warning, no motive. The Indians are not arguing how close the fishing boat was, which is the only thing that matters.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:21 pm |
    • Robert D

      So how exactly do you explain Mr. Fisherman disregarding all of the other non-lethal contact measures. What he just didn't think the warning shots where for his boat.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:50 pm | Reply
      • PEACE-NOT-WAR

        We cant even say for sure if there were any warning shots. Its not verified.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:11 pm |
    • Mark

      Anyone who cannot tell that this was a US Navy ship (OK so USNS) needs to have their eyes examined. I have been around these ships for years (12 years in the USN) and don't recall seeing any civilian shipping line that even comes close. Plus as I recall, they do have CWIS on them, though I might be mistaken on that point.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:50 pm | Reply
      • Frank Jimmies

        The Kaiser-class can be fitted with 2 Phalanx systems, but they probably didn't have them equipped.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:54 pm |
      • FriskyDingo

        No CWIS on MSC (civilian) crewed ships. MSC stripped the last ones off the fast combat support ships when the Navy turned them over about 5-8 years ago.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:55 pm |
      • Frank Jimmies

        Thanks for that, Dingo. It makes sense but I never really thought about them taking them off for USNS ships.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:58 pm |
      • Mark

        And that tells you how long I have been out.

        Thanks for pointing out that they pulled them off years ago.

        July 18, 2012 at 6:17 pm |
    • FriskyDingo

      You have not been in this situation several times. If you had ever approached to within 100 yards of a grey hull, you would have been fired upon.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:52 pm | Reply
    • daudi88

      Weezer- If you truly did know rules of the road you would know that when moving from position #1 (abaft the beam, 122.5 degrees or more) to position #2 (along side STBD) the fishing vessel initiated an overtaking situation. Once starting an overtaking maneuver, it will remain an overtaking situation regardless of the next steps. The overtaking vessel must remain clear of the vessel being overtaken. Having said that- if you close within 100 yards to any haze grey ship in that AOR, you are most likely to get shot at. And I believe you are just stirring the pot, to be honest.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:54 pm | Reply
    • Warning shots

      They fired warning shots infront of the boat. Did the fisherman not notice that? something not right about this.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:55 pm | Reply
    • warnercc

      Actually, I think you are wrong about who had the right of way. The smaller boat, being more maneuverable would have to give way.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:03 pm | Reply
    • Hastycakes

      Yea, you're absolutely right. Naval ships should just assume all small craft are friendly and let them do whatever they want... Clearly, as hinted by textual sarcasm, this is a ridiculous solution. Just like it's risky to speed up to pass in front of a vehicle on the street, you're playing a risky game on the sea as well. Why try and pass another ship (particularly a ship that is significantly larger than yours) if you have to speed up to do it anyway? Why not just play it safe and go behind? Also, if you're not paying enough attention on the sea to hear verbal warnings over the radio, hear a voice over a loudspeaker, or notice ammunition being fired in the water near your vessel... you have no business operating that vessel.

      The master of the USNS is responsible for the safety of all personnel on his vessel. If he sees an oncoming ship and doesn't take the necessary measures to protect his crew, he is risking their lives unnecessarily.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:13 pm | Reply
    • Eric

      For someone who claims to know the International nautical "Rules of the Road", you know absolutely nothing. Both vessels were under power and under command (able to manuever) so size does not matter in this case. In this case, the overtaking boat (the fishing boat), must give way to the boat being overtaken (The Rappahanock). Course changes must to pass must be done early enough so there is clear intention. In this instance the fishing boat maneuvered towards the Rappahanock which is in direct violation of the rules of the road.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:29 pm | Reply
    • shipmate

      Weezer,

      I am not sure what version of Chapman you are referring to, but clearly international rules of the road, as stated on Page 97 of my Chapman states:

      "The overtaking vessel is burdened, the overtaken vessel is priviledged. [13(a)]

      The rules further states that once a vessel in in the overtaking status, she remains so for the duration of the encounter.

      Although I was not positive I have searched and I cannot find any reference to the size of a vessel determining right-of-way. Of course, the master of this fishing vessel probably had no idea what the international rules of the road says about right-of-way, however I would think that the idea of a big grey ship flying the US Flag might preclude me getting within a half mile in open water.

      Just saying....

      July 18, 2012 at 4:52 pm | Reply
    • frontgate

      Weezer, I think you need to go back to nautical school.
      Any U.S. Navy ship in that area is a war ship.
      Duuuhhhh.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:53 pm | Reply
    • Scott

      Trigger-happy, when they let a speedboat directly approach to within 100 yards?? Sorry, but the navy played this exactly as they had to. A few more seconds delay and you could have had Cole 2.0. The fact that the boat was innocent (or appeared to be... the idea that it was testing defenses is not far-fetched given its behavior) is irrelevant. They were grievously stupid (again, assuming someone did not pay them to buzz the ship to test reactions) and paid for it.

      As far as warning shots are concerned- the survivors are probably just lying about it in hopes of getting a better compensatory settlement (or were somehow so oblivious that they missed tracer fire). The navy is absolutely rigid about rules of engagement, and that's a standard policy. Direct fire without warning simply does not happen. Ever.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:58 pm | Reply
    • chesapeakedem

      Really a haze grey freighter with a yellow and blue strip on its stack and white numbers on the side. ok

      July 18, 2012 at 5:05 pm | Reply
    • vet1

      the ship looks nothing like a freighter. its haze gray, and has a big number in white on the forward hull..... just like US NAVY ships.... the only way to distinguish this is a USNS ship and not a US NAVY ship is the blue and gold markings on the stack. the fishermen knew it was a war ship. the sailors on the oiler reacted as I would have, given the situation. I served on a navy fleet oiler and its an eerie feeling knowing you are sitting on a million or more gallons of marine diesel and worse yet jet fuel. knowing what happened to the USS COLE put yourself in these sailors shoes. a lot more than 17 would have died if the USS COLE was an oiler!

      July 18, 2012 at 5:12 pm | Reply
  30. Indian

    Why most of the people (Americans) think that Indian's hate America.

    I am an Indian and to me most of the Indians (ofcourse not all) like Americans.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:34 pm | Reply
    • ronniq

      here we go,,, kissing ass as usual

      July 18, 2012 at 5:16 pm | Reply
  31. rickwh

    It really doesn't matter who did what. The US will pay off the families for their (the Indians) error. We should just cut to the chase and let the families emigrate to the US give them lots of money and set them up with their own gas station/convenience store. It's going to happen anyway.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:32 pm | Reply
  32. Keel Hauler

    They're lucky it was only a.50 caliber. Try that on a real warship and see what happens.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:30 pm | Reply
    • PEACE-NOT-WAR

      Hey genius, it doesn't matter what size caliber it is after someone gets killed. There are a lot of things we can feel proud but weapons and destruction is not one of them.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:50 pm | Reply
      • Frank Jimmies

        He's right, they ARE lucky. If the 20mm automated system was equipped, that skiff would have been a pile of fiberglass and woodchips in the ocean.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:55 pm |
    • J

      Be a bit human.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:58 pm | Reply
  33. islassoc

    Take another look at the diagram. I too spent a lot of time on the Chesapeake Bay and dodged large frieghters and tankers. To go around one, you do not go dead on them, as even if you are able to pass behind them, you will be right in their rudder wash and wake and depending on the size of your boat, may get swamped. In the case of the Persian Gulf and the hostilities that are present (mainly generated by our "friends" in Iran,) the path shown in a the diagram would continue to have the small boat far to close to the USNS for comfort or security. The correct path would have been to slow down (not speed up) and angle your direction aft of the larger vessel, giving them a very wide path of separation. The small boat is the one that created this problem and obviously that capatin did not know what he was doing. The result: a fifty cal to the engine fired from a deck mount on a large moving vessel . If they got the engine with one shot they should enter the shooter in the US Olympic Shooting Team. Bottom line; the seccurity detail was correcct in their response and the Indian boat captain needs to go back to captain's school.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:26 pm | Reply
    • Frank Jimmies

      This comment pleases me.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:28 pm | Reply
    • Crackshot

      I love reading replies from someone who actually knows what they are talking about. Thank you to the original poster for commenting! So many morons on these articles have no clue and are just trying to scream their ignorance from behind the protection of their keyboard and monitor.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:45 pm | Reply
    • PEACE-NOT-WAR

      Are we going to draw conclusions from this elementary school level drawings? And who created this, a neutral investigative team? Its your word against mine scenario. Unless its verified through investigation we can't say for sure what actually happened.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:07 pm | Reply
    • Oh Please!!

      Take another look at the diagram big guy. It shows that the boat did get around the ship and did not get washed off or swamped as you predicted with all your expertise would happen.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:59 pm | Reply
  34. Bentley

    HEED THE WARMING,BUDDY!!!

    July 18, 2012 at 3:26 pm | Reply
  35. Andrew

    Sorry someone died, but stay away from guys with guns, maybe?

    July 18, 2012 at 3:25 pm | Reply
  36. Jr

    Something wrong with this story, a fishing boat that travelled 5 nautical miles in 3 minutes, hmmm fast boat. Not many fishing boats that do 100 knots per hour.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:19 pm | Reply
    • Mark

      I believe you are misreading the story. The three minutes likely started not when they first take note of the boat 'about five nm away', but when the boat was 1200 yards away at position #2.

      Also, as someone suggested, a boat filled with explosives should not be able to damage the ship at 100 yards. Yeah, perhaps, but if the boat was at 10 knots, they will travel 330 yards in a minute. They could be alongside the ship in about 20 – 25 seconds, and if filled with explosives, you don't need to be alongside to do damage.

      Finally, those who think you cannot see .50 cal splashes when you are 100 yards away are crazy. I believe you could also hear the fire over the sound of the ship and your own boat as well. They don't say what speed the USNS ship was traveling at, but my guess, based on where they were, the density of shipping, etc., is that they were likely in the 5 – 8 knot range. At that speed, the ship isn't that noisy.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:47 pm | Reply
    • Harin

      Actually the fishing boat was going 300 yards a minute then sped up. The fishing boat was first spotted at 5 nautical miles, but the three minute timer started when they were within 1,200 yards. It took one minute to get within 900 yards. After that the details are less clear, but it appears the fishing boat closed 800 yards in just 2 minutes which suggests it speed up as it got closer to the ship. The ship opened fire after 3 minutes of warnings and the boat was within 100 yards which is spitting distance in open waters.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:51 pm | Reply
  37. Jack

    What kind of fishing boat is that? For recreational fishing? Hummm...

    July 18, 2012 at 3:17 pm | Reply
  38. Indian

    One who has might his wrong is also Right

    July 18, 2012 at 3:14 pm | Reply
  39. The King

    "Innocent? Innocent of what"
    Gene Hackman in "Unforgiven"

    That quote should be sewn into the US flag.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:13 pm | Reply
  40. Yep_WeFired

    Yep. Approach a US ship and you will be deflected away. If you are not watching for bullet splashes across your bow, then expect rounds in your vessel in 10 seconds.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm | Reply
  41. pnpt

    a meddling US is trying to start another war. this tactic worked in viet nam but now that the disgrace obama bankrupted the sad dying country all they got was laughed at!

    July 18, 2012 at 3:08 pm | Reply
    • Guest

      Trying to start another war by protecting themselves from a boat that's ignored warnings to cease its approach? Drugs must be legal and very very good in whatever country you're from.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:14 pm | Reply
    • Keel Hauler

      Go away.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:16 pm | Reply
    • billy jester

      we no meddle. Obama good man. Navy did rite thing!! GO USA GO USA
      Indian Fishing Boat from iran...haatuey.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:28 pm | Reply
  42. SeeBee

    "We were speeding up to try and go around them ..."

    Clue: To go around _behind_ another vessel, don't speed up. Slow down.

    July 18, 2012 at 3:01 pm | Reply
  43. weezer

    I've gone around a hundred freighters in Lake St Clair (Michigan) the same way this guy did. Standard way to go around a freighter. Also - if under power, like this guy was - it is nearly impossible to hear anything other than a very loud horn. If they were talking over a loud speaker, the guy probably didn't hear them, or at least didn't understand them until it was too late (3 minute timeline? you gotta be kidding me). Gunfire from a hundred yards away - even .50 cal - would be drowned out by the motor noise of both boats, and they wouldn't see the splash.

    I'm calling trigger-happy sailor - yahoo at the gun. Dead fisherman. Nice job. You need to find a better way.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:56 pm | Reply
    • weezer

      Also - and no I'm not a munitions expert - but common sense tells me that from over 100 yards away (and it was probably actually several hundred yards) you couldn't pack that boat with enough explosives to damage the larger vessel. Maybe a tactical nuke. From the diagram it looks like the guy was simply going around and away from the vessel.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:01 pm | Reply
      • SeeBee

        Take another look at the diagram, and line up the narrative in the article with the numbered positions of the "attacking" boat. It doesn't look like they were "going around and away from the vessel," from positions 2 through 4, they were heading STRAIGHT TOWARD the Rappahannock. The Navy security detail began firing directly at the boat when it was at position 5.

        Now, put yourself inside the mind of a US Navy security crew onboard a USNS tanker full of fuel oil in the Persian Gulf. Pictures of USS Cole are seared into your brain. A small boat is heading toward you and "speeding up" (by one of the fishermen's description).

        No, that boat can't harm your big ugly ship from 100 yards away, but it's heading toward you, speeding up, and ignoring your warnings.

        It's a no-brainer. Open fire!

        July 18, 2012 at 3:09 pm |
      • jake

        uss cole? smaller boat used in the attack only 400 to 700 lbs of hx.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:10 pm |
      • Wrathistan

        Please, this is NOT a warship, it's a SUPPORT ship. It is NOT armored, it may have a double hull, but that would be the extend of it. They are made to be CHEAP (unlike most warships).

        Who needs to pack a boat full of explosives when a few carefully aimed (haha, aimed..) RPG's would be enough to poke a nice hole or two into it.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm |
      • Frank Jimmies

        Here's a protip: you don't need to hear, SOP is to fire shots in front of the vessel, and they were. The splashes from the shots are very, very obvious as are the sonic booms of the bullets.
        You can't ignore being shot at by an M2. Considering your size versus theirs, and the fact that they're armed, I would suggest YOU find a different way, not them.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:13 pm |
      • The Truth

        So you are guaranteeing the vessel would not come any closer?

        I am a former Naval Officer who was qualified and stood watch onboard warships in the Persian Gulf with the authority to order ship's weapons to open fire to defend the ship. Only an idiot would hold fire at that range, a 100 yards between vessels at sea is like 1 foot between you and me, way too close for comfort. If a vessel is considered a threat and unresponsive to visual, audible and radio warnings you open fire at max effective range allowable under the rules of engagement. You don't wait until they can come into range to damage you.

        I also see a lot of comments from recreational boaters on how they pass large vessels and consider what the vessel did as no big deal. As a person who operated Merchant Marine and Naval Vessels I speek for all of us in saying we hate you amatures, pick up, read and adhear to the Navigation Rules, you are accidents waiting to happen.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:25 pm |
      • Beadlesaz

        SeeBee – damn straight.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:44 pm |
    • ITC

      Couldn't see the flares either? I'd bet they put more than one in the air. hell we used to put one in front of the boat, then another almost onto the boat, that would get their attention.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:13 pm | Reply
    • James PDX

      If a smaller vessel is foolishly trying to pass in front of a much larger vessel, rather than behind, common sense dictates that they would have their eyes closely on that vessel. To imagine that they missed both the very loud loudspeakers on the naval ship and failed to notice .50 caliber bullets being launched at them and splashing right in front of them seems unlikely. What were they looking at if not the ship they were trying to cut in front of? Have you watched a .50 cal gun fire? Very hard to miss.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:29 pm | Reply
    • Really???

      The fishing boat that blew a hole in the USS Cole & killed 17 of it's crew was a very small vessel. You are foolish to think the any Naval vessel's commander will take a chance on it happening again.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:47 pm | Reply
  44. Indian

    It was fun to read so many comments (mostly dominated by Paki trollers, trying to make Indians look bad).
    Americans – you must be the biggest paranoids in this world. Someone blew one of your ship in 2000, so anyone who comes near your ship will be killed. Wow. What a policy.
    So you say there was enough warnings given to them and only one shot was fired at the boat? Unfortunately, every story has two sides. The victims don't agree to this version. One man was killed and a few others injured. It must be a mystery bullet that can do all this in a single shot.
    Go on, and keep shouting at me for asking obvious questions. And brand the Indians as America's enemy. I'll happily read through all these comments....

    July 18, 2012 at 2:55 pm | Reply
    • Sharon

      Second that. Get rid of Pakistan from the planet and you have instant gratification. Pakis – Root of ALL Evils

      July 18, 2012 at 3:00 pm | Reply
    • Wrathistan

      The article states that the crew of the Skiff was trying to speed up, so one could speculate that someone was right by the engine. That one shot would be fired at the engine, in order to stop the Skiff. A .50 will pass through that engine, as well as anyone in its way. So, could just be a case of really bad luck for whoever was trying to keep that engine running under 'full power'.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:01 pm | Reply
    • Louis Drummond

      I am sick and tired of these Indians using Pakistan as an excuse. India is 10 times bigger than Pakistan and always lives under its shadows. Grow up...people. This is about indians...not...anyone else. We have dealt with Pakistan and will now show you Indians what it is like to mess with Americans. They don't call us the Ugly Americans for nothing. We are one tough MoFos. Gidddyyyy Uupppp !!!

      July 18, 2012 at 3:01 pm | Reply
      • Sharon

        Louis Drummond sounds like Pervez Musharraf. Oops it is Pervez indeed!!!!!!, my bad

        July 18, 2012 at 3:03 pm |
      • Kerrie O

        So am I. I will never trust any indian again. Boycott their stinky restaurants.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:07 pm |
      • Sharon

        Kerri o, did you get booted from a restaurant. It wasn't Indian for sure 🙂 Lot of Pakis are even ashamed to call their restaurants Pakistani and shamelessly play Indian movies and songs. If that restaurant hasn't been shut down already, go check again and you will find the truth (or it will find you)

        July 18, 2012 at 3:19 pm |
      • hfx

        Grow up. Your comments display the intellect of a 5 year old who watches cartoons and mimics them like a monkey

        July 18, 2012 at 3:32 pm |
    • Rajeev

      I second it.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:02 pm | Reply
    • Wrathistan

      In fact, the article doesn't state that the casualty was actually SHOT, he could have been killed by shrapnel from the engine when the .50 tore through it.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:03 pm | Reply
      • hfx

        Yeah, liked they claimed Benazir slipped and fell and died of those injuries.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:34 pm |
    • JJ

      "Paranoid" is a bad word to use when extrmeists blow up our ships, crash planes into our skyscrapers, and try to blow up Times Square. There is a real threat and the security officers took every step possible to avoid civilian loss of life.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:06 pm | Reply
      • Indian

        Agree. Paranoid is a strong word. I take it.
        However we are missing the actual message. Americans keep talking about the democracy and people's rights. But when it comes to things like these, it can't be "Kill First, ask later". I know your Navy is now in "Damage control" mode, and giving all these explanations. I know it has happened, and can't change the past. I'm only questioning your approach.
        Do you want to see innocents killed (because they were ignorant of sailor protocols), just to be cautious.

        July 18, 2012 at 5:43 pm |
      • Rob

        Yes, Indian – after warnings, its shoot first, ask questions later – we will not risk our ships or crews to another Cole incident. The US is at war, period.

        July 18, 2012 at 6:21 pm |
    • Keel Hauler

      No, anyone who comes near our ships will be killed IF THEY DON'T TURN AROUND. We're not risking another USS Cole incident. If asking the rest of the world to avoid our warships is too much to ask, that's too damn bad.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:14 pm | Reply
      • Akash

        Sure. Your ship/fishing boats will also commit a mistake someday. Rest be assured, we will be waiting for an opportunity.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:36 pm |
      • Indian

        Buddy, it is not a war ship. The article clearly states it is civilian ship. (USNS not USS)

        July 18, 2012 at 5:33 pm |
    • Frank Jimmies

      "Someone blew one of your ship in 2000, so anyone who comes near your ship will be killed."
      This is SOP for all countries, in all branches of service, world wide. You approach a checkpoint at high speed? Except to get lit up. Come towards a fenced restricted area with a car? Expect it. Speed towards a large military vessel at high speed? Enjoy your free bullets.

      You think the UK, Chinese, Iranians or Germans would function differently? The Russians would have dumped an RPG into the skiff.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:25 pm | Reply
      • Indian

        I repeat. It is not a military ship. It is civilian ship. (USNS not USS, as stated in the article)

        July 18, 2012 at 5:45 pm |
    • Really???

      We lost 17sailors on the USS Cole. It is logical that we have had this keep your distance policy ever since. Just like we have extra security on planes after someone flew 3 of them into the Trade Towers & Pentagon killing over 3,000 people. Stupid people do not belong out to sea. Next time, heave to....

      July 18, 2012 at 3:57 pm | Reply
    • JustinFromNJ

      Even a round from a 9mm pistol can pass through more than one person with ease. But we're talking about something (literally) 30 times more powerful here.

      A gun firing the .50 BMG round launches a 50-gram projectile at three times the speed of sound. It will easily disable a small engine and have more than enough energy to pass through multiple persons.

      July 19, 2012 at 1:10 am | Reply
  45. Jessup Germaine

    Panetta and Hillary should be taken to the woodshed for taking trips to India tp promote what? Indian terrorism on American assets. We should recall the American ambassador from India and shut the embassy down. Folks, it was a mistake to depend on Indian hindus. They screwed us.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:54 pm | Reply
    • Rajeev

      Are you a Paki?your ignorance is simply mind boggling,India and USA have deep common interests and common enemies,why would India do anything which would hurt India.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:01 pm | Reply
      • Krishnamurthy

        I am a hindu Indian and you know it well (as i do) that we have nothing in common with americans...never have never will. We are using them for money and jobs.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:05 pm |
    • Vipul

      Why Indian "Hindus" specifically? Why not the Christian, muslim, Buddhist, Jain or jewish Indians? R you a Pakistani muslim who assumes that everyone in the world hates each other on the basis of religion?

      July 18, 2012 at 3:05 pm | Reply
      • Rajeev

        Another Paki troll posing as an Indian,Krishanmuthy!!!!!! lol

        July 18, 2012 at 3:08 pm |
  46. vcbronco

    When in doubt, empty the magazine and get home safe. Let the diplomats work it out afterwards.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:52 pm | Reply
  47. Jack

    We have been saying all along that India is playing dirty games in the region with the Americans...financing terrorists who are killing US/NATO/troops ....undermining democracies, paying off some factions of Talibans/Al Qaeda.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:48 pm | Reply
    • The American Yankee

      Now these Indians will face the wrath of Americans. They will witness what the repercussions are for double dealing with us Yankees.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:56 pm | Reply
    • Sharon

      Either get off your Prozac or slide back into your cave. Your inability to filter fact from rhetoric & fiction is pathetic

      July 18, 2012 at 2:58 pm | Reply
      • Rajeev

        I agree with you Sharon,he is on drugs.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:03 pm |
    • Sharon

      You are a JackA$$

      July 18, 2012 at 2:59 pm | Reply
  48. Wrathistan

    They knew it was a US Navy ship. It's not like they've never seen one before right? We've got whole FLEETS in the Gulf.

    Navy gray, big ass white number on the front, kinda tell-tale there. Besides that, normal oil tankers don't usually come equipped with a freaking HELO-PAD on the back!

    These guys simply thought that trying to pass the ship at the rear was safe and forgot that aiming your bow at a Navy ship (civilian crew or not), is kinda bad.

    As for the security detail following procedures, yeah, they WILL do that, the punishment the Navy dishes out for breaking such procedures (lethal ones) is NOT nice and every ship going Sailor knows this very well.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:47 pm | Reply
    • Mazal

      Hand them over to Mossad and we will waterboard these Indian suckers for the truth.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:50 pm | Reply
    • CTYank

      It is NOT a US Navy ship. The USNS (United States Naval Ship) Rappahannock is owned by the US Government and operated by Military Sealift Command, a branch of the US Navy. As to ship type, it's referred to simply as an oiler.

      Trying to pass ahead of a much larger ship is very stupid. Things can happen that result in your getting cut in two. Closing with CBDR (constant bearing, decreasing range) or thereabouts is an inherent threat; don't do that.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:55 pm | Reply
  49. AvgJoe

    Provided that the American ship did, indeed, attempt to warn-off the smaller vessel, then this becomes a no-brainer. The Navy ship is loaded with high explosive fuel / oil, and one well placed explosion could conceivably take every life on board. At that point, the captain & security crew would have been dead and unable to explain why they just let the tiny craft come in so close. Respectfully, the tiny boat made the mistake here and the unfortunate loss of life is somewhat less wasted if it keeps the next boat of Indian fishermen well clear of American Navy ships. The loss of this one life could possible spare many others later. I bet the word is out now; stay well clear of American Navy ships.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:37 pm | Reply
    • The Blunt American

      Let me tell you point blank again....whether you have learned a lesson or not. You Indian Hindus mess with America or Americans anywhere in this world....we will annihilate you or anyone else for that matter. in an instance of seconds. By the time you blink an eye....Kaputtttt !!!

      July 18, 2012 at 2:41 pm | Reply
      • Vipul

        Why Indian "Hindus" specifically? Why not the Christian, muslim, Buddhist, Jain or jewish Indians? Are you a Pakistani muslim who assumes that everyone in the world hates each other on the basis of religion?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:57 pm |
  50. Anwar Sadat

    I am an Indian. I don't have a problem with the incident that occurred, if the US Navy followed established protocols to warn the approaching craft. Even by the statements of the injured Indian fisherman it appear that they were approahing the ship at a high speed with the intention of going around it. Be that as it may, if the ship you are going around is warning you to keep your distance then it is up to you to comply or not. If you do not comply then you have to deal with the consequences. In this case the fishermen either ignored the warnings, or they did not receive the message. Perhaps the US Navy can work with the rest of the world to establish an acceptable set of procedures acceptable to everyone. Meanwhile India and US are allies and they should carry out transparent investigations and keep this incident within limits. After all, if the US Navy truly wanted to destroy the boat and was not simply keeping the boat at bay, they would not have left anyone alive on it. They would have kept shooting. Let us all chill. Let the people in authority complete their investigations and then accept their findings since we are not going to be in a position to know any better, ever.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:33 pm | Reply
    • Jared B

      We have been stabbed in the back by the Indians. Fooled once, your fault, twice our fault. Despite being warned, we gave the benefit of doubt to Indians. Now their DNA of being double crossers has come true. We will now consider you as hostile and deal accordingly.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:37 pm | Reply
      • Vipul

        Huh? What are you talking about? What double cross? Make sense! You sound like a fanatic ready to blow up a building for some imaginary perceived slight.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:59 pm |
      • Tommy

        You sound like a disgruntled Paki. This is none of your business. Stay out of it. You can talk if you are hiding any more Osama's in Pakistan.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:24 pm |
    • alohafalls

      All good points. I'm not sure where some of this wild response with negative Indian sentiment is comming from unless the writers are confusing some of the US/PAK issues with those of India. Too be sure India has never to my knowledge been a supporter of Muslim militants.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm | Reply
  51. Murray Cook_Chesapeake

    The bottom line is that the only way to have peace and tackle terrorism in South Asia and Middle East is to split India into pieces. It has become too big to govern or create any value for western countries or even for its own population. We have invested a lot of resources in India over the past two decades and given a lot of aid to prop it up. There has been no investment on this return. Instead India has squandered all the resources in building nuclear weapons while poverty remains rampant in the country. We need to revisit our relationship with India. American taxpayers will not tolerate this anymore. We need to take care of our own populace going forward. We cannot be exporting jobs to India or giving it financial or technical handouts.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:29 pm | Reply
    • Tommy

      You have India and Pakistan confused. India gets no govt aid from the US. If you want to control what happens to your aid money talk to Pakistan and see if you can get them to ferret the remaining Osama's they are hiding despite greedily taking billiions of your dollars.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:26 pm | Reply
  52. MrBo

    Pro Tip:
    If you see a Navy Ship don't drive your boat towards it.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:26 pm | Reply
    • RasPutin

      USNS Rappahannock looks nothing like a warship.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:32 pm | Reply
      • Dracula

        What does it look like...rama's lingam?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:43 pm |
      • Wrathistan

        Navy gray paint job, not like they never saw that before right? The Gulf isn't exactly the largest body of water and it's loaded to the brim with US Navy ships. Next to that, big ass white numbers all over, hard to miss. Oh, and normal oil tankers don't usually sport pretty helicopter hangers and launch pads on the back either!

        No matter how you look at the ship, it looks most definitely like a Navy ship, just lacks the warship style weapons.

        Also, keep in mind that the security detail used a .50 cal. machine gun, either an M2 or an M3, these are mounted on a tripod or on the railing of the ship, and clearly visible to someone who is a mere 90 yards away from the ship, no human can fire these things from the hip or shoulder (keep in mind, these are pretty much the same guns as used on WW2 aircraft like the Mustang and Spitfire, they're BIG).

        Every indication is there, including the shots fired across the bow, even if they missed the splashes in the water, they WILL have HEARD the weapon being fired.

        A real warship would've used 25mm cannons, THAT would have been the end of that little skiff, these guys were lucky.

        Maybe India needs to teach their fishermen/women proper conduct on the sea, as in 'never point your bow towards anything that even remotely looks like a Navy ship, of any country'.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:56 pm |
      • Norm

        hmm.... its huge, grey, and has white block numbers on the front and an American flag on the back. Something tells me these guys knew that whatever they were approaching wasn't the Love Boat.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:57 pm |
      • SeeBee

        It's ugly and gray and has a yellow band around its stack. It looks like a Military Sealift Command ship. It looks like something you should stay well away from.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:58 pm |
      • jorgath

        So, as the others have said, it doesn't look like a warship. But it does look like a friggin US Navy transport ship.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm |
      • Michelle

        He didn't say warship, he said navy ship. The Rappahannock is a navy ship.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:42 pm |
    • tizwicky

      Love it!!!

      July 18, 2012 at 2:37 pm | Reply
  53. Al

    So many people surmising these guys were fishermen. Does anyone wonder if they were terrorists dressed and briefed to be fisherman?

    July 18, 2012 at 2:25 pm | Reply
    • RasPutin

      Sorry, they were in fact fishermen.
      The problem for the US is that they are operating in crowded, often hostile foreign waters with ships such as this which are not true warships and look like the myriad of oil company, exploration, and scientific ships throughout the region.
      In this case they acted illegally in firing, but their responsibility to their ship and crew forced them to do it.
      The real solution is to not get into this kind of situation in the first place.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:30 pm | Reply
      • Murray Cook_Chesapeake

        The real solution is for India to denounce terrorism and against helping Al Qaeda open up a new front on the seas against American interests. That will NEVER be tolerated.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:34 pm |
      • Guest

        How was their firing illegal? Explain the legal sources you consulted to arrive at this conclusion. What's that you say? Not only did you not consult any legal sources, you also have no legal background and were just talking out your a_s_s the whole time?

        July 18, 2012 at 3:19 pm |
    • Murray Cook_Chesapeake

      Right on. Most doubt these were fishermen but just using that terminlogoy to put discussion in context. Agreed these were indian hindu terrorists used as recon.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:31 pm | Reply
      • RasPutin

        Have you no interest into looking at the actual relationship between Hindus and Muslims? Look up "Mumbai massacre" why don't you?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:40 pm |
      • Vipul

        Why Indian "Hindus" specifically? Why not the Christian, muslim, Buddhist, Jain or jewish Indians? Are you a Pakistani muslim who assumes that everyone in the world hates each other on the basis of religion.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:02 pm |
    • krm1007 ©™

      ASK UR MOTHER IF THEY ROBBED AND TERRORISED HER ALL NIGHT ... AND DONT F WITH PAKISTAN 😉

      July 18, 2012 at 2:40 pm | Reply
    • Al

      Who in the hell is krm1007 ©™??? Is he a poor comedian or just mentally challenged?

      July 18, 2012 at 6:41 pm | Reply
  54. Francis C

    The theory that Al Qaeda is opening up a new front on the seas using Indian Hindus as canaries in the mine makes a lot of sense to me. We have been sleeping in Afghanistan while India has been playing a number on us. Hopefully, this incident will wake us up to the perils of being in bed with fleas....literally, i.e. Indians. Hand over surviving indians to Mossad and they will get to bottom of it fast.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:24 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      I suggest you see a mental health therapist soon.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:33 pm | Reply
    • Jared B

      I 'll roger that.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:38 pm | Reply
    • Vipul

      Why Indian "Hindus" specifically? Why not the Christian, muslim, Buddhist, Jain or jewish Indians? Are you a Pakistani muslim who assumes that everyone in the world hates each other on the basis of religion.....

      July 18, 2012 at 3:03 pm | Reply
    • Rajeev

      I think you are confusing India with pakistan.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:04 pm | Reply
  55. Capitan

    And the last thing broadcast over the loudspeaker was "Smile and look into the flash!"

    July 18, 2012 at 2:24 pm | Reply
  56. krm1007 ©™

    YOU AMERICANS WENT TO MOON ... WE PAKISTANIS WILL GO TO SUN ... PASA .. PAKI AERO SPACE AGENCY ..

    ALREAY INVENTED TIME TRAVEL TRAVEL

    F YOU AMERICA

    July 18, 2012 at 2:22 pm | Reply
  57. krm1007 ©™

    WE PAKISTANIS CAN DRILL A HOLE IN GOAT AND DONKEY IN 2 MINS ... LET US DEAL WITH INDIANS

    AMERICANS AND PAKISTANIS ARE FRIENDS FOREVER

    July 18, 2012 at 2:20 pm | Reply
    • Rajeev

      Is your allah a gay? why dont you drill a hole in allah's ass?

      July 18, 2012 at 3:05 pm | Reply
  58. jim

    gay 0bama the anti-Christ and gay Bush the False Prophet.

    Times up gay 0bama July 2012..

    "The Beast"-->gay 0bama....

    "Men worshiped the dragon, for he had given his authority to the beast [see Emperor], and they worshiped the beast, saying, "Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?" And the beast was given a mouth uttering haughty and blasphemous words, and it was allowed to exercise authority for forty-two months; it opened its mouth to utter blasphemies against God, blaspheming His Name and His dwelling, that is, those who dwell in heaven. Also it was allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them. And authority was given it over every tribe and people and tongue and nation, and all who dwell on earth will worship it, every one whose name has not been written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb that was slain." (Revelation 13:4-8 RSV)

    (Revelation 13:4-8 RSV)

    42 months-->Times up in July 2012

    July 18, 2012 at 2:18 pm | Reply
  59. Carlos G

    These Indian terrorists need to be sliced and diced as they are opening up a new front against the Americans on the open seas. This is the new Al Qaeda strategy, it appears, that we need to put a stop to immmediately.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:15 pm | Reply
    • krm1007 ©™

      LET US PAKIS DEAL WITH INDIANS WE WILL TAKE EM DOWN IN OUR LADY PANTS AND BED SHEETS

      WE PAKISTANIS INVENTED FIRE AND FIGHTERJETS WE KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH INFEDLS

      July 18, 2012 at 2:17 pm | Reply
  60. RasPutin

    2 items:
    – the USNS Rappahannock profile looks more like a commercial vessel or exploration ship than a Navy warship (which it isn't), with no deck armament visible. Actually, it is in fact a privately operated commercial vessel.
    – according to the laws of the sea, the skiff approaching from the starboard had 'right of way', although the size difference overrules this so the 50' fishing boat would have been compelled to give way to the larger vessel, but not by distance.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:14 pm | Reply
    • Guest

      The US is not a party to the International Convention on the Law of the Sea. Never signed. Our ships are not obligated to operate by those procedures. We often do out of courtesy for those around the vessels that are bound, but I'm pretty sure warning shots off your bow clearly establish who has right of way. You're good at sounding like you know the law, but even a cursory examination shows that you're clueless.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:22 pm | Reply
  61. Kenny

    The men and women on board the Navy Oiler should never fired on that little boat. They should have allowed it to ram them and if it exploded then we could say they had hostile intentions.

    Come on people.............You can't be that dumb. When a person tells you he is going to kick your butt, a person with common sense would do one of two things. You either turn and run like hell or you make every effort to nutralize the threat before you are injured. This principal of self preservation is true on 53rd street, Route 66, at Hollywood and Vine or on any US Navy craft. The only people that knowingly allow themselves to become the resulting target of aggression are IDIOTS. The question simply put is "WHAT ARE YOU"?

    July 18, 2012 at 2:14 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      Where is the proof of the warning shot? The boat says, it didnt get any. How close was the boat? Was it approaching the ship when shots were fired? If not, why shots were fired? Are we Indians supposed to believe anything that comes out of American navy at face value? Your reaction is understandable. You love your armed forces and think they could do no wrong.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:26 pm | Reply
      • Guest

        Okay, let's play that game. Where is there proof that there were no warning shots fired? The Navy follows EXACTLY THE SAME procedures every time an incident like this occurs. They'll have the shell casings for all the rounds they fired right on board that ship.

        Your reaction is understandable, though. You love your countrymen, and think that they could do no wrong.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:23 pm |
      • saywhut?

        Akash, you didn't really READ the article, did you? If you did, reading comprehension=FAIL.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:36 pm |
  62. krm1007 ©™

    PAKISTAN HAI HAMARA

    SALWAR DALTE HAI JAWAN

    HAARTE HAI INDIA SE BHIR GAAND MARAWATTE HAI JAWAN

    PAKISTAN LAND OF SALWAARS AND BED SHEETS 🙂

    July 18, 2012 at 2:13 pm | Reply
    • Rajeev

      Man! that was some funny stuff!

      July 18, 2012 at 3:06 pm | Reply
  63. krm1007 ©™

    India and america f you
    we pakistanis invented cell phones , cars , aeroplanes , fire , coke ,pepsi mostly every thing human uses

    what have you infedils invented??????

    pakistan zindabad

    July 18, 2012 at 2:08 pm | Reply
    • iam rael

      krm1007, what are you putting in your pipe??? Pakistanis invented cell phones , cars , airplanes , coke, pepsi??? You're right, Americans have never invented anything useful . . .

      You're out of your f**ing mind.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:16 pm | Reply
    • EL

      Liar.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:16 pm | Reply
    • HPNIII

      About 20,000 Nuclear bombs – Rag Head

      July 18, 2012 at 2:17 pm | Reply
    • anony

      Stop posting such rediculous nonsense you filthy indian.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:55 pm | Reply
    • saywhut?

      You had Al Gore working for you?

      July 18, 2012 at 3:37 pm | Reply
    • saywhut?

      Akash, you are a moron of the first order. Do us a favor: stick your head in a bucket of water, and pull it out twice.

      July 18, 2012 at 3:42 pm | Reply
  64. Simply release the VIDEO

    The fact of video removes all questions.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:04 pm | Reply
  65. Owen1710

    From my perch these indians were recon for Al Qaeda/Iranian intelligence testing the sensitivity of US Navy ships and their tolerance level. Hopefully it was not a diversion for whatever got away.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:04 pm | Reply
    • Vipul

      your perch is at the corner of the World history classroom with a dunce cap if you think India will ever work with Al-Quaida or Taliban.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:09 pm | Reply
    • Krishnamurthy

      I agree. This is terrorist alley.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:12 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      Keep your hollywood style conspiracy theories to yourself and don't try to divert the attention. Key questions are (1) was warning given? If yes, is there proof of it? (2) Could this be avoided? If so, what could have been done. Nothing has been found on the fishing boat yet in terms of the weapons.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:15 pm | Reply
      • Guest

        There were many warnings given in sequence. The Navy follows strict procedures in all incidents of this kind. There'll be lots of proof of it too. It was probably all video taped, there will be sworn depositions from the military personnel and from the civilian crew, who were not involved with the firing. The shell casings would be kept, indicating exactly how many rounds were fired, and the same number of rounds would be missing from ship's stores.

        Could it have been avoided? Easily. The much smaller and more maneuverable ship could have turned away from the .50 caliber rounds landing in front of the boat.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:30 pm |
      • Akash

        Guest – Come up with a solid proof. Even your "president" , bill clinton lies under oath and sworn testimony. Give that crap to someone else.

        July 18, 2012 at 4:39 pm |
    • alex

      nice theory sam fisher, if only we had more splinter cell operatives like you giving us all the secret details left out of stories like this.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:19 pm | Reply
    • alex

      absolutely correct; this was a test ; by the way if that boy got hit by the 50 he should not have a leg or better he should have bleed to death. you dont want to be on the receiving end of that bad boy.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:43 pm | Reply
      • anony

        Totally agree with Owen here.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:56 pm |
  66. Sal

    Any ship, boat, or dingy getting too close to an American ship first deserves the warning shots and if not heeded, fire upon them. After the Cole, we can't take any chances. 

    July 18, 2012 at 2:03 pm | Reply
    • V.P.

      Sal, well said!

      July 18, 2012 at 2:20 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      Yours isnt the only ship that was attacked in the history. And your response seems quite careless. How would you feel if your father , brother, son was killed as a "perceived" threat. There is no justification for killing innocent people. Defending such acts is called incompetence and arrogance.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:23 pm | Reply
      • Beadlesaz

        (1) who said they were innocent? and (2) they (the *Indian fishing vessel*) put themselves in danger. GO NAVY!

        July 18, 2012 at 2:28 pm |
      • Akash

        @bedlesaz – I am sure some day small american boat will play foul with Indian navy ship and if some US citizen gets killed by putting himself in "harms" way to use your own words. I would want to see your predictable reaction of shouting murder from rooftop.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:35 pm |
      • Guest

        If a small civilian skiff is too blind to turn away from warning shots, the firing vessel has the right to protect itself, no matter what flag each ship is flying.

        How many warnings would be enough? If it was your family on the larger boat, would you want them to risk it, or should they just hope that the little boat isn't packed to the gills with explosives?

        July 18, 2012 at 3:33 pm |
  67. sheht16

    There are two possibilities 1) The fishing crew was napping, asleep, playing cards, etc. You set a course and wait a few hours. 2) This was al queda or pirates probing for a response.

    I suspect it would help if the Navy used flashbangs or stun grenades. A two pound flashbang exploding directly overhead should get someone's attention unless their boat is very noisy. Flares are very bright but if someone is working below decks they won't see it.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:01 pm | Reply
    • Akash

      Yes the navy seems to have taken the trigger happy approach by simply assuming that the other party was terrorists. Kind of paranoid approach and knee jerk reaction to everything. Hey someone created a hole in our ship 13 years ago, so we can fire on and kill anyone who comes near us. After the terrorist attacks, it has to do with mental state of american security establishment rather than anything else. A lot of incompetent people work for American navy as well.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:21 pm | Reply
      • Guest

        They gave them at least three non-lethal warnings before they took lethal action. What part of that is trigger-happy?

        As to the competence of US Navy sailors, you clearly have no idea what you're talking about and it's quite obvious that you have no personal experience with anyone in the US Navy either.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:34 pm |
    • Pat Healey

      Off base for two reasons:

      1. Sea captains are responsible for the navigation of their craft at all times. Not OK to set the autopilot and then walk away to play cards, take a nap, etc without having the boat under positive control by SOMEONE.

      2. What do you think a flashbang will accomplish that warning shots from a .50 cal machine gun will not? Not really an easy thing to ignore....

      July 18, 2012 at 2:30 pm | Reply
  68. Polkovnik

    Anyone who believes krm1007 you are a real gullyfish. Incest is strictly forbidden by the Qur'an. (Sura 4:23 if you're interested enough to check the facts.)
    Lots of chat here about insults to Islam. Krm1007, whoever and wherever you are, you're a prime contributor.

    July 18, 2012 at 2:01 pm | Reply
    • anony

      krm1007 is indian 🙂

      July 18, 2012 at 2:57 pm | Reply
  69. Nick

    Common sense, your boat takes one across the bow, next move.........IMMEDIATELY CHANGE COURSE!!!!! As far as I'm concerned the Rappahannock was justified in its actions. Change the scenario, with a Russian ship in place of the Rappahannock. there would be no escalation of response. First response woule have been shoot to kill.......So why is it wrong when the U.S. does it? We're protectng our assetts, as it should be.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:59 pm | Reply
    • Vipul

      The argument is that the fishermen say no warning was given. I find that improbable but not impossible if the Security team on the USNS was napping on the job and suddenly saw a small boat speeding up toward them.
      At the end of the day, armed forces once again killed unarmed simple fishermen. An apology is justified.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:07 pm | Reply
      • sheht16

        What's the explanation for these unarmed simple fishermen steering to within 100 yards of an oil tanker in the middle of the sea? You don't even do that in a harbor without communicating your intent with the vessel you are passing.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:20 pm |
    • sheht16

      The odds are high the people on the fishing boat simply did not have anyone standing watch and so never noticed the flares or warning shots. The article says the boat did not have a radio which is common for the third world. The other possibility was these were terrorist or pirates probing and then loosing the game of "chicken" with what looked like an oil tanker.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:15 pm | Reply
      • Vipul

        sheht16 – Agreed. The fishermen could easily have made a mistake. nobody qualified them as experts. But no arms were found on the fishing boat. Just fishermen trying to feed their families. All I say is that an apology is justified. American politicians may be arrogant as hell but I've met American troops, and, like any other country's armed force, are mostly honest, strong and humble enough to make admit a mistake.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:23 pm |
      • linda operle

        I agree with your theory the fishermen may have not understood the warning signs. If radio connection was not made these "simple minded" people most likely just didn't know what was going on and attempted to pass the ship. They may even have thought the warning flares meant the ship was in trouble and got close to check. I don't believe they were terrorist at all. The assumption anyone who is in a boat understands military signals is a misguided one.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:36 pm |
    • Vad

      I agree with Nick. If they followed their Rules of Engagement then all is justified. No apology is due. If we apologize for justified action then we are obliged to put into place even more insane steps just to protect our own lives. Remember, that ship is their life line. If anything happens to it they are all in trouble. Of course the fishermen are going to say they didn't get any warning. It is just as likely they were up to no good. Who is to say they were not packed with explosives and simply threw them over board after getting shot up? Lots of possibilities. I don't like the idea of saying I'm sorry for defending myself when you were trying to kill me.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:29 pm | Reply
  70. F. Daniel Gray

    After the downing of the Iranian airliner in 1988, and the repeated drone "mistake" killings of innocents in Pakistan and elsewhere, we should not be surprised at this. We do it at home: The woman who was upset at her electricity being terminated in Los Angeles about 10 years ago. The 5 foot tall homeless woman with a shopping cart, and a screwdriver in her hand, who was seen as threatening 3 Los Angeles police officers. We "others" are always seen as a threat. No surprise. It's the later rationalizations that grate. For they are usually surrounded by hubris and hypocrisy. Just compare the hundred of millions paid to US after the Lockerbie incident and the paltry sum given to the families of the iranian jet with 200 passengers aboard.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:52 pm | Reply
  71. jkflipflop

    I'm pretty sure these people know that's an American warship. Everyone knows what will happen if you mess with an American warship. Why would you turn your boat directly perpendicular to it and hit the gas? It sucks that someone got killed, but comon man. That's like running at a cop with your airsoft gun in your hand.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:51 pm | Reply
    • guest

      why are you pretty sure they knew it was a warship?(which it was not – it was a oil supplier for warships and had mostly civilian crew as the article clearly states) . ordinary people in other countries may not know what a warship looks like.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:00 pm | Reply
      • jkflipflop

        Go look at a picture of it.

        If you could confuse that for anything other than what it is, then you deserve to be shot.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:02 pm |
      • Lagos

        How many tankers (which it obviously was) don't carry some sort of defensive weaponry, and how many tankers would not fire on a vessel on a direct collision course that failed to respond to communications and repeated warnings?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:03 pm |
      • JD

        ...if you can't ID the ships that you come in contact with, then you have NO business on the water piloting a boat. On another note, anyone with any common sense would know NOT to steer toward a ship and then hit the gas...come on really?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:19 pm |
    • Howard Ting

      Sorry, but this looks nothing like a warship.

      http://global.fncstatic.com/static/managed/img/fn2/video/071612_yw_phares_640.jpg

      July 18, 2012 at 2:15 pm | Reply
  72. usn vet ray johnson

    I servered in the usn aboard a warship. the protocol's and prcedure' that have been set in place have been there since man first went to sea. when the aircraft headed for the ship i was aboard, do you think that the captain had to look in the manual to see what he should do? Hell no, he has to know what to do before he ever is given that command. so for all of you that are too sensitive, or don't know the rules of warfare, get off your soap boxes and let the one's that are man and woman enough to protect your candy asses and your freedom.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:45 pm | Reply
    • Jack

      Aye Aye Captain ! Thank you for your service to the country. Take these Indian terrorists down before they raise their heads again.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:51 pm | Reply
    • guest

      yeah, and what better way to protect freedom than take the lives of innocent fishermen and let the actual criminals go scott free.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:54 pm | Reply
      • To "Guest"

        If you come at me running as fast as you can and Im not sure what you're up to...I'm going to drop you in the same manner as well.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:11 pm |
      • t

        It was an open boat. They saw the ship and knew what they were doing. It was going at a high rate of speed. No one had set it to just go out to sea. Someone was steering the boat. They were not innocent, but they cry foul when they are hurt. It doesn't matter the race, whites can be terroist to. It matters when they try and hurt Americans, because we are Americans.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:20 pm |
      • San

        @ guest...Innocent? You would know this how? Its obvious that you have not put on the uniform to serve your country. You don't even have the ba~~s to use your name, but you sure don't have a problem snuggling up under the blanket of freedom and protection that the men and women of this country have provided for you. Speak not of the issue you are ignorant of, its not a good look for you. We will not have another USS Cole or Mersk Alabama. But of course according to you they were innocent fishermen too..right?

        July 18, 2012 at 2:36 pm |
    • Jataka

      You've never protected anyone's freedom. America has never been invaded. Get your head out of your ass.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:06 pm | Reply
      • Jakarta is a d-bag

        And letting others who F with us know what the repurcussions are hopefully we never will be. And now you know too Jakarta so watch your ass pal.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:12 pm |
      • Cabin

        "America has never been invaded" Are you truly that ingorant? War of 1812, the British INVADED the United States and burned the whitehouse to the ground.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:24 pm |
  73. xfiler93

    why did they fire on it? USS COLE anyone?

    July 18, 2012 at 1:40 pm | Reply
  74. Concerned Citizen

    Wow, When I see this and when I see Indians trolling articles mentioning Pakistan, it's easy to see why these two countries have a long history of killing one another. Quite frankly I don't think either of these nations should have Nuclear Weapons. Cause one of these days one nation or the other is going to do something childish and then a few hundred million people are going to become radioactive dust.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:37 pm | Reply
    • Frank Jimmies

      And nothing of value will be lost.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:41 pm | Reply
    • Perry

      Don't be concerned...chill. This is about Indian terrorist attacking US Navy. has nothing to do with others. We are equally concerned about hindu fanaticism raising its ugly head from India while we were busy fighting Al Qaeda. We thought Indians were our friends but they stabbed us in the back again. Obviously we did not learn from the cold war experience with India when they were USSR's b$itch.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:42 pm | Reply
      • Vipul

        Really Perry? When the Indian Prime Minister we t to the UN to look for support from outside threats, it was the US that rejected the support because they needed military bases set up in Pakistan to stop Russia from invading Afghanistan and taking over USA's oil interests. I don't know where you get your history dude. Also, anybody from USA that talks about Pakistan or India not having nuclear responsibility should know that only one country has detonated an atomic bomb at innocent civilians and killed millions. So please, you uneducated idiots. Learn some history before you crap all over your keyboard.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:01 pm |
      • Vipul get back to your 7-11

        India, Pakistan...it's all the same stinky middle east junk. You better be glad all those dinosaurs died in that area to give you all that oil...otherwise you'd be as irrelevent as Luxembourg.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:15 pm |
  75. Brocius

    As far as I am concerned Pakistan Navy should be patrolling these waters alongwith US Navy. We have just sent them 3 destroyers, Lockheed P3 Orion surveillance A/C etc. If we trust them with these state of art equipment let them help us.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:36 pm | Reply
    • Scott

      Thank you General Goldwater.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:41 pm | Reply
    • asdf

      HAHAHAHAHAHHA...Trust Pakistan...HAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...that's a good one!

      July 18, 2012 at 1:46 pm | Reply
    • Earnest T Bass

      And Pakistan keeps charging the good guys a 5,000 dollar fee to use their roads? and these are the good guys? Ugh!

      July 18, 2012 at 2:02 pm | Reply
    • Earnest T Bass

      And while your at it, Please tell them we still would like our top secret helicopter tail piece back from Seal Team 6

      July 18, 2012 at 2:05 pm | Reply
  76. Frank Jimmies

    ""We were speeding up to try and go around them and then suddenly we got fired at," the injured fisherman said. "
    Confirmed for idiot driving 50' boats around the ocean.

    "Hey guy's what's that big thing with the American flag on it?"
    "Maybe we should continue our path towards it instead of keeping good distance from it!"
    "What were those splashes in the water in front of us?"

    July 18, 2012 at 1:30 pm | Reply
    • guest

      these are fishermen folk, and though the events affecting USS Cole may be fresh in American minds, here is a surprise for you – much of the world is not preoccupied with America or its interests, least of all fishermen surviving on daily wages. If you are a fisherman trying to provide for your family and not knowledgeable about USS cole, and you see this huge vessel in open waters, the reaction could be anythnig from panic to curiosity. Definitely not something for which they need to be killed.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:58 pm | Reply
      • San

        Fisherman trying to provide for their families, not aware of the USS Cole, really? Hint, innocent fishermen trying to provide for their families should stick to the lakes are rivers they are used to. Any idiot knows better than to come within 90 yards of large vessel (in open waters) in what is the equivalent of a row boat. You should take yourself and your sympathy to india and comfort them.

        July 18, 2012 at 2:49 pm |
      • Frank Jimmies

        Well, here's a hint for you:
        If you are operating a vehicle in waters were navy ships are known to be, you should know some basic rules of the ocean... like, staying away from military vessels, or knowing how to avoid a larger slow moving ship, or having communications in your seafaring vessel.

        July 18, 2012 at 3:20 pm |
    • Coflyboy

      ...and thank you for shopping QuickieMart, please come again!

      July 18, 2012 at 2:08 pm | Reply
  77. Rev. Gerome Haggis

    New, More Dangerous Hindu Extremist Groups Emerge in India

    Christians concerned as rightwing factions splinter to form militant outfits.
    PUNE, India, October 29 (CDN) — After more than a decade of severe persecution, India’s Christian minority is growing increasingly concerned over the mushrooming of newer and deadlier Hindu extremist groups.

    Gone are the days when Christians had to watch out only for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council) and its youth wing, Bajrang Dal, which are closely linked with the most influential Hindu extremist umbrella organization, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). With voter support faltering for the RSS’s political wing, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), moderate and extremist sections within the Hindu nationalist movement are blaming each other, and militant splinter groups have emerged.

    Claiming to be breakaway factions of the RSS, new groups with even more extreme ideology are surfacing. The Abhinav Bharat (Pride of India), the Rashtriya Jagran Manch (National Revival Forum), the Sri Ram Sene (Army of god Rama), the Hindu Dharam Sena (Army for Hindu Religion) and the Sanatan Sanstha (Eternal Organization) have launched numerous violent attacks on Christian and Muslim minorities.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:29 pm | Reply
    • Yakobi

      You're not fooling anyone, Paki.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:34 pm | Reply
      • doc

        He is not a paki, otherwise he would be moaning more about the Indian muslims than the Indian christians.

        July 18, 2012 at 1:37 pm |
  78. No Nonsense American

    My sense is that Congressman Dana Rohrbacher is p$ssing in his pants today. Oh, by the way, your threats of befriending India was humorous. You really want them as friends? A country with a communist skin; undermining American interests in Iran, Iraq, Syria; 1.2 million Indian Army hiding in trenches scared of Talibans and so forth. When you go back to the hill next week, Congressman, please spend your time in introducing a bill condemning the atrocities in Indian Occupied Kashmir and genocide being undertaken there by the Indian Army. Why have you been so quiet on this pressing issue when millions of women and children are being murdered by your so called friends, India? And why are you so quiet when these Indian Hindus are attacking our ships in the Middle East? Say something...speak up. Be a man, congressman. Earn your pay today.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:26 pm | Reply
    • Yakobi

      You're not fooling anyone, Mr. Paki.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:34 pm | Reply
    • Kapler

      I am not contributing a penny to him anymore till i hear his position on the Indian terrorism attack issue on our Navy.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:38 pm | Reply
    • asdf

      LOL really? A country "with a communist skin"? They still have a CASTE system for christ's sake! They're practically Feudal!

      July 18, 2012 at 1:47 pm | Reply
  79. Lagos

    I'm amazed that there's a grand total of two posts on the first page that aren't blatant trolls. Lovely site you have here, CNN.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:23 pm | Reply
  80. draxta

    I love the trolls today! They are out in full force. 🙂

    July 18, 2012 at 1:22 pm | Reply
  81. No revenue sharing in India-Pakistan series: PCB

    pakistan begging India for revenue share for pakistan india series ..India showed em middle finger MWAHAHAHAH

    July 18, 2012 at 1:20 pm | Reply
  82. Billy the Kid

    I say go gun blazing to India and mow these back stabbing Hindu critters down to a pulp. Teach them a lesson so that they won't mess with USA again. God Bless America.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:18 pm | Reply
    • JCCH

      Here's a gun, go for it Rambo !!!

      July 18, 2012 at 1:25 pm | Reply
      • Billy the Kid

        Gun? Are you kiddin. Need a bazooka/nukes for these Indian Hindus. They are so many of them like ants.

        July 18, 2012 at 1:31 pm |
    • Yakobi

      You're not fooling anyone, Paki troll.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:35 pm | Reply
  83. SP

    WOW !!! Drop the name India and lo and behold Paki turds come out to play. So predictable. Without India there is no reason for their existence.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:17 pm | Reply
    • No Nonsense American

      Oh, by the way, your threats of befriending India was humorous. You really want them as friends? A country with a communist skin; undermining American interests in Iran, Iraq, Syria; 1.2 million Indian Army hiding in trenches scared of Talibans and so forth. When you go back to the hill next week, Congressman, please spend your time in introducing a bill condemning the atrocities in Indian Occupied Kashmir and genocide being undertaken there by the Indian Army. Why have you been so quiet on this pressing issue when millions of women and children are being murdered by your so called friends, India? Why are you so quiet when these Indian Hindus are attacking our ships in the Middle East?

      July 18, 2012 at 1:23 pm | Reply
      • Yakobi

        Paki troll, you're not fooling anyone.

        July 18, 2012 at 1:36 pm |
  84. Lt. Pedro

    To clear this out the Indian term used is not for the Asian Indian, those guys were Cherokees and were drunk as well.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:15 pm | Reply
  85. charles

    best wishes! marrying my sister was the best thing i ever did!

    July 18, 2012 at 1:14 pm | Reply
    • Joe from CT, not Lieberman

      Oh, so you're from Alabama?

      July 18, 2012 at 1:52 pm | Reply
  86. krm1007 ©™

    AS PER PAKISTANI TRADITION MY DAD MARRIED HIS SISTER AND A GOAT AND I AM MARRYING MY SISTER AND A DONKEY ... THIS IS BEST TIME OF MY LIFE I WANT TO SHARE WITH ALL IN LADY PANTS CALLED SALWAAR 🙂

    July 18, 2012 at 1:12 pm | Reply
  87. Tennessee Tim

    I say let the talibans loose in India. They are our friends now. Use 'em against Hindu Indians.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:12 pm | Reply
  88. John Galt

    India is a great U.S. ally you nimrods. The person killed was probably an Indian Muslim or JUST fishing and stupidly strayed too close to the ship. If they had been carrying munitions they would have blown up.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:11 pm | Reply
    • Jacqui

      Why the heck would Indian fishermen be fishing in the waters of Dubai thousands of miles away from India? Fishy, isn't it ??!!! Smells rotten. Good try. I say drone the heck out of New Delhi to teach these double crossing indians a lesson they will never forget.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:13 pm | Reply
      • lolol

        there are idiots and then there's you

        July 18, 2012 at 1:17 pm |
    • Lagos

      There are plenty of munitions that will not explode when subjected to a bullet impact, and a reasonable probability that any munitions would not be hit in the first place. If you're going to criticize others, don't say something stupid yourself.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:22 pm | Reply
      • guest

        but the fact is, there were no munitions. i think the people aboard the ship were just target practicing on innocent people

        July 18, 2012 at 2:05 pm |
  89. Hamilton Talbot

    Has the ocean around India dried up that these Indians will be fishing in Dubai? Just think folks, why would a fishermen from Seatlle go to Chile to fish for a living unless they are terrorists trying to attack US Navy ships there !!! I say take them down. We should start droning Mumbai.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:09 pm | Reply
    • Harish

      i guess Indians are learning from us. Use other's resources first.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:17 pm | Reply
    • guest

      They were not sailing from india. the ship also had two saudi arabian fishermen onboard.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:08 pm | Reply
  90. krm1007 ©™

    PLEASE EVERYONE WISH ME LUCK I FINALLY GET TO ENJOY MY SISTER ... I HAVE BEEN DREAMING FOR THIS DAY FOR AGES .... LOVE YOU SIS KUM WIFE 🙂

    July 18, 2012 at 1:08 pm | Reply
  91. zzwillhelmzz

    after what happened to the USS Cole can we blame them

    July 18, 2012 at 1:08 pm | Reply
    • doubledees

      Shoot the bas turds. All of them.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:12 pm | Reply
  92. Jacqui

    Why the heck would Indian fishermen be fishing in the waters of Dubai thousands of miles away from India? Fishy, isn't it ??!!! They think they are Al Qaeda and will mess with US Navy. We will blow these Indian terrorists to smithereens.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:06 pm | Reply
    • Jon

      70% of Dubai's expat population is Indian... Now I believe that the fisherman are at fault in this situation (seeing as it seems that the Navy did attempt to give fair warning), but at least post something credible...

      Dubai is known for its horrible track record for human rights and has a lot of immigrants who's work is akin to indentured servitude, many of whom are Indian.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:39 pm | Reply
      • Perry

        Typical Indian...bite the hand that feeds you. These backstabbing vermints...these indians. Shame.

        July 18, 2012 at 1:47 pm |
      • Jon

        Dude, I'm a white U.S. citizen...

        July 18, 2012 at 2:01 pm |
    • Robert

      If you are a fisherman you fish where the fish are. Personally on all of this I subscribe to Hanlon's razor "Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity". There is a chance that the operators of the boat were "Al-Quaeda Operatives", but there is also a (probably higher) chance that they were in the "Just enough intelligence to breathe on their own" category that you run into everywhere, regardless of ethinicity/country of origin.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:01 pm | Reply
  93. KeithNJ

    Never trust an Indian. They will stab you in the back. All these Indian terrorists should have been shot and thrown in the sea to the sharks. How dare they mess with America.

    July 18, 2012 at 1:03 pm | Reply
    • Yakobi

      I think you meant to say "Paki" instead of "Indian", as the former fits but the latter does not.

      BTW, you're not fooling anyone, Paki.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:28 pm | Reply
    • srikant

      Ok, Mr.Paki...who changed his screenname...and then trying to anger public of both US and India..
      Wait....in a decade, your home country-pakistan will probably not exist.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:35 pm | Reply
  94. Sundance Kid

    India can drape itself with an American flag, hide behind the American skirts, try to shed its communist skin and sweep the genocide in Kashmir and atrocities against minorities under the rug. But those who understand the Indians and have kicked the tires know well that it is a country that garners no respect and is not to be trusted. Indian Hindus are like termites that appear harmless but will eat you up to the core at the first chance they get. Therefore, from people who know them, they will never ever get any respect. That is one of the biggest character traits that has kept this country from progressing and amounting to much.

    July 18, 2012 at 12:59 pm | Reply
    • Yakobi

      No one trusts Pakistan–sponsor of terrorism, creator of the Taliban, protector of the Haqqani network, and hider of bin Laden.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:29 pm | Reply
  95. Faruk Waheed Aljafari

    American filth. You dare insult our prohpet Muhammed and dare disgrace Allah! ALLAH AKBAR! Jihad is the only answer for this. The rivers will run red, cities will burn, and coward american will sit behind coffee table sucking down their unholy cream filled drinks before they are evaporated by the explosive hand of allahs people. ALLAH AKBAR! ALLAH AKBAR!

    July 18, 2012 at 12:59 pm | Reply
    • ArthurP

      No, an insult to Islam is a suicide bomber blowing up 23 guests at a wedding ceremony.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:07 pm | Reply
    • xfiler93

      go back to your mud hut and thump your camel MUSTAFA.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:10 pm | Reply
    • claydo66

      You need to eat some fried pork skins and relax a little.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:11 pm | Reply
    • USA

      yea .... yea..

      July 18, 2012 at 1:13 pm | Reply
    • sawolf

      Yeah??? We know the real reason why you bend over 5 times a day to pray to the devil. A backside a mile wide.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:17 pm | Reply
    • JB!

      Muhammed gave me a hummer while I fingered your mom and ate a bacon sandwich. What sucks is the sandwich was the best part of it all.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:29 pm | Reply
    • Jataka

      Islam is stupid.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:08 pm | Reply
    • Coflyboy

      I wouldn't urinate on Mohammed if he were on fire. To heII with Mohammed and that hate-filled religion.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:17 pm | Reply
    • Langor

      May all your virgins be boys.

      July 18, 2012 at 2:44 pm | Reply
    • JW

      How about I send you my address and I wait for you to come to my house, I am sure you would never bother since you are all cowards and fight like little girls in the school yard. I was in Iraq for 13 1/2 months until one of your cowardly cousins shot me from behind, unfortunately for him he was a bad shot and I was a much better shot, hope he is having fun with those virgins in the afterlife......if you wanna re unite with your cousin again please come to upstate NY and I will arrange the meeting, man up rag head

      July 18, 2012 at 3:16 pm | Reply
    • charliebear

      You can always figure out who the cowards are by the way they treat their women.

      July 18, 2012 at 4:17 pm | Reply
  96. Butch

    TERRORIST GROUPS IN INDIA
    • RASHTRIYA SWAYAM SEWAK SHANG (R.S.S.)
    • VISHWA HINDU PARISHAD
    • HINDU MUNNANI
    • ARYA SAMAJ
    • SHIV SENA
    • BHARATIYA JANATA PARISHAD
    • SANT SAMITI
    • HINDU MAHASABHA
    • BAAJRANG DAL

    July 18, 2012 at 12:57 pm | Reply
    • Yakobi

      Terrorist groups in Pakistan:
      al Qaeda
      Taliban
      Haqqani network
      Pakistan Intelligence Service (ISI)
      Pakistan GOVERNMENT!

      July 18, 2012 at 1:31 pm | Reply
    • doc

      Add to that: Jamaat-e-Islami. India is multi-religious even in its terrorism

      July 18, 2012 at 1:33 pm | Reply
    • Karl Franz

      Terrorist groups in the USA:
      * Tea Party
      * Republican Party
      * Democratic Party
      * Boy Scouts
      * Girl Scouts
      * Bed Bath and Beyond
      * Taco Bell
      * Walmart

      July 18, 2012 at 5:00 pm | Reply
  97. krm1007 ©™

    nothing to do with post BUT I PROPOSED TO MY SISTER GUYS AND SHE SED YESSSSSSSSSSS

    AS PAKISTANI THIS IS BEST DAY OF MY LIFE 🙂

    July 18, 2012 at 12:57 pm | Reply
    • Mahatma Gandhi & Jerry Sandusky: Strange Bedfellows

      Mahatma Gandhi and Jerry Sandusky: Strange Bedfellows

      What do these two have in common???? Terrorizing and banging boys !!!! Shame. Pedophiles. Let us bring their memories down and their legacies trashed. Let us knock their statues down and their thoughts erased.

      July 18, 2012 at 1:02 pm | Reply
      • krm1007 ©™

        yea brother they were mean
        BUT I AM MARRYING MY sister wish me luck

        July 18, 2012 at 1:07 pm |
    • doc

      shut the f up dude, you sound ridiculous. and you are embarassing the rest of the indians here

      July 18, 2012 at 1:34 pm | Reply
      • doc

        I meant this gaandu 007, not the mahatma and sand sandusky gaandus

        July 18, 2012 at 1:35 pm |
  98. Dana R

    Let this be a shot across the bow for India. We Americans will not stand for any BS coming from them. Stand down or we will vaporize you and take your nukes and give it to Pakistan.

    July 18, 2012 at 12:55 pm | Reply
    • krm1007 ©™

      Hey sister ... i finally proposed to my sister and she sed YESSSSSSSSSSS

      everyone congratulate me .. i dreamt of this day since she was born ... as a pakistani this is best day of my life 🙂

      July 18, 2012 at 12:59 pm | Reply
    • bob aussie

      Dana, your comment is as stupid as Farek's.....

      July 18, 2012 at 1:00 pm | Reply
  99. krm1007 ©™

    finally i proposed to my sister and she sed YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS
    as a pakistani tradition we getting married on friday .. i cant wait to take her burkha and black bed sheet off ..
    been dreaming for this since she was born .. loVE YOU SISTER KUM WIFE

    July 18, 2012 at 12:51 pm | Reply
  100. Gomez

    Sorry, I posted in wrong location....oooops !!

    We have invested a lot of resources in India over the past two decades and given a lot of aid to prop it up. There has been no investment on this return. Instead India has squandered all the resources in building nuclear weapons while poverty remains rampant in the country. We need to revisit our relationship with India. American taxpayers will not tolerate this anymore. We need to take care of our own populace going forward. We cannot be exporting jobs to India or giving it financial or technical handouts.It has become too big to govern or create any value for western countries or even for its own population. India needs to be divvied up into smaller independent states to be a viable economically and geo politically.

    July 18, 2012 at 12:50 pm | Reply
    • krm1007 ©™

      Gomez bhai congratulate me as my father married his sister ill be marrying my sister this friday

      wish me luck 🙂

      July 18, 2012 at 1:05 pm | Reply
    • Vipul

      Gomez, I think you meant that the US should be divided into smaller states and be shared amongst all the South Americans invading it. This way they will keep their troops and armies out of other regions and countries and mind their own business.
      I'm not sure why you have this hate for Indians but India never went asking for jobs. It was the US, you're precious people that sent the jobs to India. And if the average Indian is smarter and more capable than you, there is no reason to be mad. it's nobodies fault. If the US had any balls then they'd be shooting down Chinese fishermen. Ooops! can't do that. China might shut the US of A down! BTW "Gomez" which country did your ancestor's run from to get to the US?

      July 18, 2012 at 2:17 pm | Reply
    • Santy

      India has received zero resources and aid from USA that goes toward any military program. The aid that USA gave to India was minuscule and had no impact on Indian economy. Indians are creating more jobs in India than any other immigrant ethnic coming to USA in modern times. You know nothing about Indo-US relationship. In fact, you are pakistani hiding behind an american name like a coward. . There was sanctions by USA against India. India owes nothing to USA. In fact, USA has been arming Pakistan which is India's no1 enemy. What you are saying applies to Pakistan as they are the ones receiving billions in aid. The USA has economic interest in India. You have no idea about what you are talking moron.

      July 18, 2012 at 10:37 pm | Reply
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