India has reiterated its firm commitment to ensuring safe and unrestricted maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia.
Speaking at a media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India supports free and open commercial shipping in line with international law. He confirmed that the United Kingdom has invited India to participate in discussions on the issue, with Foreign Secretary of India representing New Delhi at the talks.
India is actively engaging with Iran and other regional stakeholders to ensure safe passage for Indian vessels, particularly those transporting critical energy supplies such as LPG and LNG. Jaiswal noted that six Indian ships have safely transited the strategic chokepoint in recent days due to these coordinated efforts.
On the safety of Indian nationals in the Gulf region, Jaiswal said that nearly 10 million Indians residing across Gulf Cooperation Council countries are safe, with embassies maintaining constant contact. However, he confirmed that eight Indian citizens have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict, while one remains missing.
India has also facilitated the evacuation of 204 citizens from Iran via the land border into Azerbaijan, thanking authorities there for their support. More evacuees are expected to return in the coming days.
Addressing developments at the United Nations Security Council, Jaiswal said India is closely monitoring discussions around a Bahrain-backed resolution related to the crisis. He reiterated India’s consistent position advocating maritime security and uninterrupted navigation.
Looking ahead, India is preparing for its upcoming leadership role in BRICS, with multiple high-level meetings planned in the coming months.
