New Delhi: India strongly condemned attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, describing such actions as unacceptable and harmful to global trade and security. Addressing the United Nations Security Council, India urged immediate steps to ensure the safety of maritime routes and restore free navigation.
India’s Deputy Permanent Representative Yojna Patel stated that targeting commercial shipping and endangering civilian crew members cannot be justified under any circumstances. She emphasised that such incidents disrupt vital economic lifelines and pose serious risks to international commerce.
While not naming any country directly, India referred to its earlier support for a UN resolution that condemned attacks linked to Iran. The remarks come amid reports of assaults on vessels in the region, including incidents involving Indian ships and casualties among Indian sailors.
India highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime corridor through which a significant portion of global oil and gas supplies passes. The disruption of this route has direct implications for India’s energy security and trade, given its strong economic ties with Gulf nations.
Officials also underlined the human dimension of the crisis, noting that nearly 10 million Indians live and work in the Gulf region. Ensuring their safety remains a top priority, especially amid escalating tensions.
Calling for restraint, India urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomatic engagement to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East. It stressed that stability in the region is crucial not only for global markets but also for maintaining peace and safeguarding livelihoods connected to international trade routes.
