New Delhi: India is in active discussions with several countries, including Iran, to ensure the safe movement of Indian vessels through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of External Affairs said during a briefing on recent developments in West Asia.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the region while maintaining constant communication with partner nations to facilitate the smooth passage of Indian ships. He emphasised that the safety, security and well being of the Indian community across the region remain the government’s highest priority.
According to officials, a dedicated control room set up by the ministry continues to operate to assist Indian nationals and address concerns raised by families. Indian missions across West Asia are functioning round the clock, operating 24 hour helplines and maintaining regular contact with community associations and local authorities.
The statement comes amid reports that India’s efforts to safeguard its maritime and commercial interests in the region face uncertainty due to internal power struggles within Iran, particularly between the civilian government and the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Jaiswal also confirmed that the mortal remains of two Indian nationals who died in an attack in Sohar in Oman were received by their families in Jaipur. He expressed condolences to the bereaved families and said Indian authorities remain in contact with hospital officials and the concerned company to monitor the condition of injured nationals. None of the injured Indians are reported to be in critical condition.
Officials further noted that around 44,000 people have returned to India from West Asia in recent days.
Providing an update on air travel, Jaiswal said the UAE Civil Aviation Authority had temporarily closed the country’s airspace earlier in the day but reopened it after a few hours. Flights between the United Arab Emirates and India are continuing on a limited basis, with about 55 flights operating on March 16 and around 70 flights expected to operate the following day depending on operational conditions.
During the briefing, Sujata Sharma from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas also highlighted concerns about potential LPG supply disruptions. She said the government is exploring alternative sources of gas supply and has already begun diversifying imports, including shipments from the United States.
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