India has condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, urging the restoration of free navigation through this critical maritime route during a recent UN Security Council meeting.
NEW YORK, NY – India has firmly condemned the recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, labeling them as unacceptable and calling for the restoration of free navigation in one of the world’s most vital maritime trade routes.
During a session of the United Nations Security Council on April 28, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Yojna Patel, emphasized that “commercial shipping must not be the target of military attacks, and such attempts are deplorable.”
While Patel refrained from naming any specific country, her remarks implicitly referenced Iran. She highlighted India’s role in co-sponsoring a Security Council resolution introduced by Bahrain that condemned Tehran’s aggressive actions against its neighbors in the Middle East.
“It bears mention in this context that India had co-sponsored UNSC resolution 2817, which was adopted on March 11,” Patel stated.
India’s interests in the region have been directly impacted by the ongoing tensions. Iranian attacks have previously targeted Indian vessels, and at least three Indian sailors have lost their lives in incidents involving ships from other nations.
Patel reiterated the seriousness of the situation, saying, “We underscore that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable.”
The meeting, convened by Bahrain, which holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council for April, focused on the escalating situation in the Middle East.
Patel further stressed the importance of unimpeded shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for India, noting that it connects the country to a region that is central to its trade and energy supply chains.
“Almost 10 million Indians live and work in the Gulf region; their safety and well-being are a key priority for us,” she added.
In her address, Patel called for immediate de-escalation of tensions, asserting that dialogue and diplomacy are essential to ease the current situation in the Gulf.
She concluded by stating, “The Middle East is our proximate neighborhood, and we have significant stakes in the security and stability of the region.”
According to IANS, India’s stance at the UNSC underscores its commitment to maintaining peace and security in a region that is crucial for its national interests.