India has expressed deep concern over the incident in the Strait of Hormuz, where two Indian-flagged vessels came under fire while passing the strait. The attack, which took place on Saturday, has raised concerns about the safety of maritime trade routes in this vital waterway. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed India’s concerns regarding the incident at a press briefing in Colombo.
He said, “We are extremely disturbed by the attacks that took place on merchant mariners,” adding that India has made its position clear to the Iranian authorities. Misri stressed the importance of maintaining international waterways as free and open for unimpeded passage, particularly for critical global trade, including energy-related commerce.
“We have also maintained very, very clearly that international waterways must remain free and open for unimpeded passage of shipping of all kinds, whether it is energy-related trade or other kinds of commerce.”
He further added that the two vessels that came under attack were carrying crude oil and were transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane that handles about 20% of global liquefied natural gas supplies. Carriers named Samnar Herd and the bulk carrier Jag Arnav reported that they were fired upon while crossing the strait. Both ships were forced to return to the Persian Gulf, though no injuries were reported among the crew members.
he also mentioned initiatives and discussed key proposals, including a project to develop an energy hub in Trincomalee and a plan to link India and Sri Lanka through an oil pipeline.
The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed the incident and summoned the Iranian Ambassador, Mohammad Fathali, in protest. The ministry urged Fathali to convey the concerns to the Iranian authorities and ensure the safe passage of India-bound ships across the Strait of Hormuz.
