MEA Calls for Unimpeded Navigation Through Strait of Hormuz
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday reiterated India's firm stance on ensuring unimpeded and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. This comes amid the ongoing crises in West Asia and recent US strikes on three commercial vessels carrying Indian seafarers. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed deep concern over the attacks and hoped they would come to an end soon.
Addressing a special briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to France and Slovakia, Jaiswal stated that India has consistently advocated for the free and secure movement of vessels through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that India would raise this issue during discussions with international partners.
India's Position on Strait of Hormuz
We have stated our position in the Strait of Hormuz. We want unimpeded and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, keeping with international law. This topic will come up for discussion, and we will put our points across, Jaiswal said during the briefing.
Concern Over US Strikes on Vessels
Speaking on the US strikes on three foreign-flagged commercial vessels carrying Indian seafarers, which resulted in three deaths, Jaiswal said India is closely monitoring the situation. We are deeply concerned at these attacks and hope and expect these will come to an end, he added.
Details of US Strikes
Earlier, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American forces struck the Guinea-Bissau-flagged oil tanker MT Jalveer, carrying 20 Indian seafarers, in the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM claimed the ship violated the US blockade against Iran. Two Hellfire missiles were fired into the ship's engine room after the crew failed to comply with repeated directions.
This marks the third commercial vessel attacked by US forces in the Gulf of Oman this week. Previously, Palau-flagged vessels MT Marivex and MT Settebello were disabled for attempting to transport Iranian oil. The MEA confirmed that three Indian seafarers lost their lives in the attack on MT Settebello.
Efforts to Repatriate Bodies
Jaiswal stated that efforts are underway to bring the mortal remains of the deceased Indian seafarers to India at the earliest. He confirmed that the attack on MT Jalveer was carried out by the US Navy operating in the region. These attacks came from the US Navy that is stationed there, he said.
Sanctions on Vessels
Jaiswal further noted that two of the vessels were under sanctions imposed by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), while another was categorized as a non-compliant ship. The identification process for the deceased crew members has been completed.
US Blockade Statistics
According to CENTCOM, since the blockade was initiated on April 13, US forces have disabled nine non-compliant vessels, redirected 135 ships that complied, and allowed 42 vessels supporting humanitarian aid to pass. The blockade is enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas.
Regional Geopolitical Disruption
The conflict, which began on February 28 after US-Israeli forces struck Iran, has caused major regional and geopolitical disruption. Iran and the US are vying for control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy trade. India continues to monitor the situation closely and advocate for peaceful resolution.
