Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Thursday highlighted a worrying reality as tensions rise in West Asia. Speaking at a meeting on the Gulf, he pointed out that India is the only country to have lost mariners in attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, a reminder of the human cost of the crisis and the urgent need to keep shipping lanes safe.
Misri represented India on Thursday at a meeting hosted by the United Kingdom to discuss reopening and securing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes. Over 60 countries attended the meeting, which focused on diplomatic and political solutions, rather than military action, to ensure freedom of navigation.
India raises alarm over Gulf maritime attacks
The statement comes after three Indian seafarers were killed in recent attacks on merchant ships in the Gulf. Misri stressed that the human cost of these incidents is a serious concern for India.
India has been engaging with Iran and other countries to ensure the safety of shipping lanes. Misri emphasised the need for freedom of navigation and safe passage for international trade, especially in critical waterways like the Strait of Hormuz, something all countries should be careful about.
The conflict in West Asia began over a month ago with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28. In retaliation, Iran targeted Israeli and US assets, disrupting shipping lanes and global energy markets.
Energy security at stake
Misri also pointed out the crisis’s effect on India’s energy security, saying it could hurt the country’s access to fuel. With global oil and gas supplies disrupted due to Iran’s partial blockade of the Strait, India has been actively engaging with countries in the region to ensure safe and smooth passage for its ships carrying LPG, LNG, and other products.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to press for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. India has maintained direct talks with Iran, so far, six India-flagged vessels have been allowed to transit safely.
Call for diplomacy
Finally, the Foreign Secretary said the solution lies in de-escalation. He urged all parties involved to return to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the tensions peacefully.
The meeting was chaired by UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper, with representatives from France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the UAE. The USA did not participate. Misri joined the deliberations virtually and reiterated India’s stance on maritime safety and free commercial shipping, in line with international law.