India has urged the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz during a multilateral meeting convened by the United Kingdom, stressing that it is the only country to have lost mariners in attacks linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict. The strategic waterway has been under Iran's chokehold since the war began, raising concerns over maritime safety and energy supplies.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri represented India at the virtual gathering attended by more than 60 countries. During the discussions, India emphasised the importance of ensuring safe and free navigation through international waterways while reiterating that diplomacy remains the most viable path to de-escalation, NDTV reported.
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India highlights energy security concerns
The Ministry of External Affairs said the crisis has had a direct impact on India's energy security, which remains closely tied to developments in West Asia. "He emphasised the impact of the crisis on India's energy security and the fact that India remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant shipping in the Gulf," NDTV quoted the Foreign Ministry as saying in a statement.
Misri also called for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. "He also underlined that the way out of the crisis consisted of de-escalation and a return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue among all concerned parties," it added.
According to the Directorate General of Shipping, at least three Indian seafarers on board foreign-flagged vessels have reportedly been killed and one injured while their ships were stranded in the Hormuz Strait.
India joins talks to reopen key oil route
India participated in the meeting of over 60 countries to explore ways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, whose closure has pushed oil prices higher. With India among the world's largest crude oil importers, disruptions to key shipping lanes in the Persian Gulf have heightened concerns about economic and supply stability.
Indians in Gulf, evacuation efforts
Around 10 million Indian citizens currently reside in Gulf countries. The Foreign Ministry said all Indians in these nations are safe. "Our embassies in all these countries remain in constant contact with them," the Ministry said.
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So far, eight Indian citizens have died in the conflict and one remains missing. "Ministry of External Affairs, in coordination with our Ministry of Shipping and all our Indian embassies in the region, we are dedicated to safeguarding the security and interests of our citizens. We are closely monitoring all developments and activities related to the Gulf region, this ongoing conflict, and the Strait of Hormuz," spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was quoted as saying by NDTV.
India has also facilitated the exit of 204 nationals from Iran via the land border to Azerbaijan, with more expected to return soon.
