India’s Foreign Minister Calls on Iran to Halt Maritime Attacks
Urgent Diplomatic Outreach
Indiadailyupdate.com – Jaishankar dials Iran s Abbas Araghchi in a critical diplomatic effort to protect commercial shipping and seafarers caught in escalating regional hostilities. The External Affairs Minister held a tele-conversation with his Iranian counterpart on Friday evening, conveying India’s deep concerns about the ongoing situation in the Middle East. Through a statement posted on social media platform X, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of shielding merchant vessels and maritime workers from further aggression.
The minister highlighted that India strongly urged both parties to avoid attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers under any circumstance. This diplomatic intervention comes as the death toll among seafarers has reached ten, with Indian nationals among those lost in the crossfire between Iran and the United States. Jaishankar made it clear that India condemns any such attack by any party involved in the conflict, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the hostilities.
“Had a tele-conversation with FM @araghchi of Iran this evening. Conveyed our deep concerns at the ongoing hostilities in the region.”
Humanitarian Concerns and Regional Stability
The maritime crisis has created significant humanitarian challenges, with multiple seafarers losing their lives in recent attacks. Jaishankar mentioned receiving updates on Iran’s perspective regarding the recent events, noting that further discussions continue between the two nations. India has consistently maintained its position of supporting dialogue and diplomacy as the preferred path to resolving international disputes.
The minister characterized the attacks on commercial vessels and Indian sailors as absolutely unacceptable, with India condemning such actions unequivocally. These developments follow closely on Jaishankar’s parallel conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, where similar concerns about maritime trade disruptions were expressed. The minister pointed out that attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea region have resulted in tragic losses, including the death of an Indian sailor when a Ukrainian drone strike targeted the merchant vessel MV Omorfi.
“Strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party.”
Global Economic Implications
Jaishankar highlighted how interconnected these regional conflicts are and their cascading effects on the global economy. The simultaneous crises across different parts of the world are creating serious challenges for essential commodities and supply chains. The minister underlined the fragility of the current international situation, noting that multiple conflicts in different geographies are impacting fuel, fertilizer, and food security, especially for countries in the Global South.
Cumulatively, five Indian seafarers have perished while two others remain unaccounted for following recent assaults on shipping in the Black Sea by both Russian and Ukrainian forces. The minister emphasized that India’s concerns extend beyond its own citizens, as the broader implications of these maritime disruptions affect global trade and economic stability. The diplomatic efforts by Jaishankar reflect India’s commitment to protecting its citizens and promoting peaceful resolution of international conflicts through dialogue and cooperation.
“India is always supportive of dialogue and diplomacy.”
