India on Tuesday strongly condemned the attacks on two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that killed one Indian seafarer and injured 10 others. Calling the strikes “acts of violence”, New Delhi said such attacks threaten the safety of international shipping and disrupt free navigation through one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
What did India say after the attacks on two commercial ships?
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it was “deeply concerned” over the attacks on MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa. The two vessels together had 46 crew members, including 30 Indian nationals.
According to the government, MT Al Bahiyah had 12 Indian crew members. One Indian sailor was killed in the attack, while another sustained injuries. MT Mombasa had 18 Indian nationals on board, of whom nine were injured. Two of the injured are reported to be in serious condition.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased Indian national and wish speedy recovery to those injured,” the MEA said in its statement.
The statement came shortly after the MEA summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over the attacks on the two merchant vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
India also expressed concern over the growing threat to maritime trade and global commerce, stressing that commercial ships and civilian infrastructure should never be targeted.
“In particular, the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must cease in order that free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways, in keeping with international law, can be restored at the earliest,” the government said.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz crucial for global trade?
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global oil and gas shipments. The latest attacks have once again raised concerns over the security of international shipping as tensions between Iran and the United States continue to escalate.
India also urged all sides to immediately stop violence and return to dialogue. The MEA said the renewed hostilities in West Asia threaten regional peace, security and stability, and called for diplomacy to prevent further escalation.
