India Condemns Strait of Hormuz Attacks at UN, Seeks Immediate West Asia De-Escalation

India has strongly condemned the recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions in West Asia and the restoration of safe navigation through one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes.

Addressing a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate on the Middle East, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, described the renewed escalation of hostilities as " deeply concerning " and stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to lasting peace in the region.

Harish strongly condemned attacks on merchant vessels, including GFS Galaxy, MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa, during their transit through the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that the attacks directly affected Indian nationals, with several Indian seafarers injured, one Indian losing his life and another still missing.

Emphasising India's consistent stand, Harish said commercial shipping, civilian infrastructure and seafarers must never become targets. He urged the international community to ensure the restoration of free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in accordance with international law.

Highlighting India's strong economic and strategic ties with the Gulf region, Harish said West Asia is vital for India's trade, energy security and expatriate community. India has an annual bilateral trade of around $180 billion with the region, cumulative foreign direct investment exceeding $31 billion, and receives over $52 billion in remittances from Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Nearly 10 million Indians live and work across the Gulf, making their safety a top priority for New Delhi.

Harish also urged the global community not to overlook the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reiterating India's support for a two-state solution with an independent Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel. He further condemned Houthi attacks on maritime navigation in the Red Sea and called for greater protection of international shipping routes.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs said India is coordinating with Ukrainian authorities to trace two Indian seafarers missing after the merchant vessel MV AGN Ragnar was struck at Odesa port on July 25. The government said it remains in touch with local authorities and the families of the missing sailors while reaffirming that attacks on commercial shipping and civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.