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India raises shipping safety with Iran as bombings in Strait of Hormuz grow
India raises shipping safety with Iran as bombings in Strait of Hormuz grow
External affairs minister S Jaishankar spoke to his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi to discuss the safety of shipping and energy security as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz, the MEA said in a press briefing.
The conversation comes amid attacks on commercial vessels and rising risks to maritime traffic in the crucial waterway, a key route for global oil trade. Randhir Jaiswa said the discussion focused on ensuring the safe passage of ships and maintaining stable energy supplies through the region.
Jaiswal said the two leaders have been in touch repeatedly in recent days. “EAM and FM of Iran have had three conversations in the last few days. The last one discussed issues pertaining to safety of shipping and India’s energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything,” the official said.
The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a major flashpoint in the ongoing regional conflict, with several vessels damaged in recent attacks, raising concerns over disruptions to global shipping and energy flows.
The MEA also confirmed that around 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, seafarers, professionals, business people, and pilgrims, are currently in Iran and are being assisted amid safety concerns in the country.
Jaiswal said that several of these individuals, particularly students, have already left Iran and returned to India. Others, including students and pilgrims based in Tehran, have been shifted to safer locations and cities within the country.
"We've had about 9,000 Indian nationals who were there or who are there in Iran. These 9,000 Indian nationals comprise students, seafarers, business people, professionals and some pilgrims. Several Indian nationals, mostly students, left the country and reached home. We have shifted several Indian nationals, including students and pilgrims, who were based in Tehran to other safer locations and cities in the country," he said.
"We are assisting Indian nationals who wish to travel to Azerbaijan and Armenia and from there take commercial flights to return home. We are providing help with visas and facilitating land border crossings," Jaiswal said. He added that multiple Indians have approached the mission for help in crossing into neighbouring countries safely and have been successfully supported in doing so.
The MEA spokesperson urged all Indian nationals desiring to leave Iran via land routes to strictly follow the advisory issued by the Indian embassy.
