Subhechcha Ganguly 
Amid the ongoing Iran–US conflict, India has raised concerns over its energy security and called for the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while highlighting that it remains the only country to have lost mariners in attacks on merchant vessels in the Gulf.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, representing India at a UK-convened meeting, stressed the critical importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and uninterrupted transit through international waters. The meeting, attended by over 60 countries, focused on finding ways to restore shipping movement through the vital oil corridor, although the US was reportedly absent.
Misri reiterated India’s long-standing stance on safeguarding maritime routes and underlined the severe impact of the conflict on the country’s energy supplies. He also pointed out that Indian seafarers were the only casualties in attacks on commercial shipping in the region.
Calling for a peaceful resolution, Misri emphasised that de-escalation and a return to dialogue and diplomacy among all parties are essential to resolving the crisis.
In the early phase of the conflict, three Indian seafarers were among eight nationals killed in strikes on merchant ships in West Asia.
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the discussions reflected strong international resolve to reopen the strait through political and diplomatic means rather than military intervention, according to the Associated Press.
Earlier, Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India was among the nations invited by the UK for the talks. He reiterated that India supports free and secure maritime trade in accordance with international law and continues to prioritise safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
