S Jaishankar Urges Iran to Prevent Attacks on Commercial Ships, Reaffirms India's Push for Diplomacy

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and expressed Indias deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in West Asia, urging that commercial ships and seafarers should never be targeted amid the ongoing hostilities. Sharing details of the conversation on social media, Jaishankar said he conveyed Indias concerns over the escalating conflict in the region and stressed that attacks on merchant vessels and civilian sailors must be avoided under all circumstances. He added that India condemns such attacks regardless of the party responsible.

The conversation comes as maritime security has emerged as a major concern following a series of incidents affecting commercial shipping in strategically important sea routes. The issue is particularly significant for India, which depends heavily on these shipping lanes for crude oil imports, international trade and the movement of thousands of Indian seafarers working aboard global merchant vessels. According to Jaishankar, Araghchi briefed him on Irans assessment of the rapidly evolving situation in West Asia. The Indian minister reiterated New Delhis consistent position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective means of resolving regional conflicts and preventing further escalation.

India has maintained regular diplomatic engagement with countries across West Asia as tensions continue to impact regional stability. New Delhi has repeatedly emphasized the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and ensure the uninterrupted movement of commercial vessels through international waters, warning that any disruption could have wider consequences for global trade, energy supplies and supply chains.

The latest outreach also follows Jaishankars recent conversations with other foreign counterparts regarding the safety of commercial shipping and Indian seafarers operating in conflict-affected waters, reflecting Indias growing diplomatic focus on maritime security amid rising geopolitical uncertainties. With the security situation in West Asia remaining volatile, India continues to advocate restraint, peaceful dialogue and the protection of civilian maritime traffic, while closely monitoring developments that could affect its economic and strategic interests.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from IANS.