Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: India on Thursday raised serious concerns at the United Nations over threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, urging the immediate restoration of safe navigation and calling for restraint and de-escalation amid continuing tensions in the Middle East.Addressing the UN General Assembly debate under the Veto Initiative on “The Situation in the Middle East,” India’s Permanent Representative Ambassador Harish P said maritime security was vital for India’s energy and economic interests.“An aspect of particular concern for India, for its energy and economic security, relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict,” he said.He said India strongly condemned attacks on civilian maritime activity and stressed that such actions were unacceptable.“We reiterate that the targeting of commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members or otherwise impeding the freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable,” he said.Calling for adherence to international law, Harish urged the international community to ensure free movement of trade through the strategic waterway.“International law in this regard must be fully respected. We strongly urge that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored at the earliest,” Harish said.Highlighting the human toll of the conflict, he noted that Indian nationals had also been affected.“The precious lives of Indian seafarers aboard ships have been lost during the course of the conflict,” he added.Referring to the broader conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, Harish reiterated India’s consistent call for restraint and diplomacy.“Since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on the 28th of February 2026, India had expressed deep concern and urged all states to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize safety of civilians,” he said.“We have urged all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy and de-escalation of tensions and to purposefully address underlying issues,” he added.Reaffirming India’s position on sovereignty, Harish said, “We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.”India’s remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over possible disruptions to global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors.
