India's tough stand on Middle East war: 'We will not tolerate attacks on ships and deaths of innocent people in strait of Hormuz'

London (The Uttam Hindu): India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, has strongly condemned the attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. He reiterated India's commitment to global maritime security, freedom of navigation, and the security of energy supply chains.

Addressing the 36th extraordinary session of the International Maritime Organization Council in London on Thursday, Doraiswami said India expresses deep concern over the evolving situation in the region. He appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions through diplomatic dialogue, while stressing the highest priority for civilian safety.

He stated that targeting commercial vessels and attacks on civilian maritime infrastructure are completely unacceptable. Such attacks have resulted in the loss of life and injury to many innocent people, further increasing the risk. The Indian High Commissioner also noted that India is among the top three global suppliers of seafarers, with Indian seafarers representing approximately 13 percent of the global maritime workforce. Therefore, India is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of all seafarers.

Meanwhile, the IMO Council also condemned these attacks and threats, taking seriously the growing threats to merchant ships in the Gulf region. The Council stressed the need to enhance international coordination and ensure the safety of civilian ships. A key resolution at the meeting agreed to promote a framework called the Maritime Safety Corridor. Its purpose is to provide safe passage to merchant ships transiting high-risk areas and to ensure safe maritime activities.