The United States confirmed direct communication with India after New Delhi raised concerns about attacks on Indian seafarers in West Asia. Following India’s diplomatic protest, a US State Department official stated ongoing engagement with India on the issue. India had summoned the US Charge d’Affaires in response to recent attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, including the fatal incident involving the commercial ship Settebello off Oman’s coast.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs attributed the attacks to regional conflicts and urged an immediate halt to violence affecting commercial shipping. Emphasizing the welfare of Indian seafarers, India condemned the attacks and stressed the need for peace and stability in the region. The MEA conveyed its concerns directly to the US side and called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
India highlighted the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for international shipping. The MEA clarified that the recent incidents involved foreign-flagged vessels, not Indian-owned ships. The Indian Embassy in Oman reported another vessel incident off Shinas port, raising further worries about commercial shipping safety in the Gulf region.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy transit route, faces heightened sensitivity due to escalating tensions and military activities. India, with a significant seafaring workforce, has been vocal about maritime security concerns whenever conflicts jeopardize shipping lanes in the region.
