India has called for the immediate reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over maritime safety and energy security as tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East. Representing the country at a high-level virtual meeting hosted by the United Kingdom, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasised the urgency of restoring normal shipping operations in the region.
The multilateral session, attended by more than 60 countries, focused on addressing the ongoing crisis and ensuring stability in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
During the discussions, India highlighted that it remains the only country to have suffered fatalities among its citizens in recent attacks on merchant vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. According to official data from the Directorate General of Shipping, at least three Indian sailors serving on foreign-flagged ships have lost their lives, while another sustained injuries amid escalating hostilities, as per a report on NDTV.
These incidents underscore the growing risks faced by maritime workers in the Gulf region, as commercial vessels continue to encounter disruptions and threats in the conflict zone.
Reiterating New Delhi’s stance, Misri stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement over military escalation. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, he stated that “the solution lies in de-escalation and a return to diplomacy and dialogue among all parties involved.”
India also pointed to the wider implications of the crisis, particularly its impact on global energy flows. The Strait of Hormuz serves as a crucial passage for oil shipments, and any prolonged disruption has the potential to trigger volatility in international markets.
