India Monitors Safe Shipping Amid Region Tensions
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that as of Thursday, six Indian ships transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) have successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz. With ongoing conflicts affecting the area, India is maintaining communication with Iran and other nations to ensure the safe passage of its vessels.
During a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India is participating in a meeting hosted by the UK regarding the Strait of Hormuz later today.
When asked about discussions with Iran to expedite the movement of 18 Indian-flagged ships that are currently stuck in the Persian Gulf, Jaiswal mentioned, “We are in contact with Iran and other nations to secure safe transit for our ships carrying various products, including LPG and LNG. Thanks to our efforts, six Indian ships have already crossed the Strait safely.”
Regarding the UK meeting, Jaiswal stated, “The UK has invited various countries, including India, for discussions on the Strait of Hormuz. Our Foreign Secretary will be attending the meeting this evening.”
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has raised alarms over regional stability and the global energy market, especially considering the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for oil transport.
In response to claims that India is paying a toll for its ships to pass through the Strait, Jaiswal clarified, “We have addressed this matter before; there have been no discussions of this sort with Iran.”
Last month, Iran indicated it would not impose restrictions on vessels from five “friendly” nations, including India, allowing them to transit through the Strait of Hormuz amidst tighter access for other countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that while certain nations are restricted, friendly countries—including China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan—are allowed passage.
On March 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the security situation in West Asia. PM Modi condemned attacks on crucial infrastructure in the region and emphasized the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation.
Earlier on March 12, the two leaders held a discussion where PM Modi expressed concern over the escalating tensions, lamenting the loss of civilian lives and damage to infrastructure. He reiterated India’s stance that all issues should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
