India expresses deep concern at fresh West Asia tensions, calls for dialogue

India has voiced significant concern regarding the recent surge in tensions and attacks in West Asia, particularly those targeting merchant shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement emphasizing the risks these developments pose to regional peace, security, and stability.

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India is deeply concerned over the recent attacks and escalation of tensions in West Asia, which have followed fresh targeting of commercial shipping transiting international waterways in the region.

New Delhi urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and de-escalate the situation. The statement stressed the critical importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and maintaining the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and commerce through the vital waterway. India's position reflects its vulnerability to disruptions in the region, which has historically impacted its oil, gas, and fertilizer supplies.

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These developments risk undermining regional peace, security and stability.

Following exchanges of attacks between Iran and the United States, including strikes on commercial vessels and subsequent retaliatory actions, tensions have significantly heightened. The US Central Command reported hitting over 80 targets in Iran, while Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have struck 85 US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait.

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We urge the parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and ensure protection of civilians as well as the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and commerce.

Amidst these escalating hostilities, India reiterated its call for a return to dialogue and diplomacy. The country emphasized the need for parties to engage in peaceful negotiations to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict. This stance was conveyed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his visit to Kuwait, where he discussed regional stability and cooperation with Kuwaiti officials.

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We urge the parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict.