New Delhi (India) April 17:India issued a strong diplomatic warning on Thursday regarding the ongoing maritime crisis in the Strait of Hormuz , labeling disruptions to commercial shipping as “unacceptable” and calling for an urgent return to safe navigation. The country reiterated its stance, underscoring the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.

Strait of Hormuz Vital for India's Energy Security

Harish P, India’s representative to the United Nations General Assembly, highlighted that threats to shipping in this crucial waterway directly affect India’s energy and economic security. He pointed out that the Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global oil and gas supplies, essential for maintaining stability in domestic prices and supporting industrial activities.
“An aspect of particular concern for India relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict,” he said.

Call for Safe Navigation In Strait of Hormuz

In an address, Harish condemned attacks on civilian maritime operations, asserting that targeting commercial vessels and endangering human lives is simply unacceptable.
“We reiterate that the targeting of commercial shipping and impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable,” he said.
“International law must be fully respected. We strongly urge that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest,” he added.

Urging Restraint Amid Iran-Gulf Tensions

Since the conflict in the Iran-Gulf region began on February 28 this year, India has voiced serious concerns and called on all nations to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize the safety of civilians.
“We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy and de-escalation of tensions, and to purposefully address underlying issues. We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states,” he said.

UN Debate Follows Vetoed Resolution

India’s remarks come amid rising geopolitical tensions and worries about potential disruptions to global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s key maritime trade corridors.
Harish made these comments during a UN General Assembly debate focused on “The Situation in the Middle East,” convened following the veto of a Bahrain-led resolution by Russia and China earlier this month in the UN Security Council, which aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.