Daijiworld Media Network - United Nations

United Nations, Apr 29: India has strongly condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, calling for the immediate restoration of free and safe navigation through the vital waterway.

Speaking at a meeting of the United Nations Security Council, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative Yojna Patel said that commercial shipping must never be targeted in military actions, describing such incidents as “deplorable.” She emphasized that ensuring uninterrupted maritime movement is essential for global trade and energy security.

Although she did not directly name any country, Patel referred to earlier Council action, noting that India had co-sponsored a resolution condemning attacks in the region. She cited United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, adopted on March 11, which strongly criticized assaults on neighbouring countries in the Middle East.

India highlighted that incidents in the region have already affected its citizens, with reports of attacks involving vessels linked to the country and the deaths of at least three Indian sailors. Patel also noted broader disruptions to global shipping routes, including measures taken by the United States in the region.

She stressed that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for India due to its dependence on the region for energy imports and trade connectivity. Nearly 10 million Indian nationals live and work in Gulf countries, making their safety a major national concern, she added.

Patel called for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to reduce tensions in the Gulf region, describing it as a critical neighbourhood for India with deep economic and strategic ties.

“The targeting of commercial shipping and threats to innocent civilian crew members are unacceptable,” she said, reiterating that stability in the Middle East is essential for global economic security.