India Pushes for Swift Resumption of Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

United Nations, April 17: India has strongly condemned attacks on commercial vessels amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, urging the swift restoration of uninterrupted maritime movement through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, India’s Permanent Representative Harish Parvathaneni described the targeting of merchant shipping as “deplorable” and a serious threat to global economic stability and energy security.

India Flags Concerns Over Energy Security

Highlighting the importance of the Strait of Hormuz, Parvathaneni noted that India’s economic and energy interests are deeply tied to the safe passage of commercial vessels through the route. He emphasized that any disruption in maritime traffic directly impacts global supply chains and India’s energy imports.

India reiterated its firm stance that attacks on civilian ships and crew members, as well as any obstruction to free navigation, are unacceptable and violate established international norms.

Call for Respect of International Law

India underscored the need for strict adherence to international maritime law, calling on all parties involved in the conflict to ensure safe and unhindered passage for global trade.

“The freedom of navigation and commerce must be restored at the earliest,” Parvathaneni asserted, stressing that prolonged disruption could have far-reaching consequences beyond the region.

Human Cost of the Conflict

The Indian envoy also expressed deep concern over the loss of Indian lives during the crisis, particularly seafarers caught in the crossfire. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, several Indian nationals have been killed, while at least one remains missing in conflict-related incidents.

UN Debate Triggered by Security Council Deadlock

The remarks came during a special debate under the Veto Initiative after Russia and China blocked a resolution in the United Nations Security Council aimed at reopening the Strait.

This deadlock prompted broader discussions at the General Assembly on the escalating crisis in West Asia.

Global Trade Faces Severe Disruption

The Strait of Hormuz linking the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea has witnessed a dramatic decline in shipping activity. Data from UN Trade and Development indicates a sharp drop in daily vessel movement, severely impacting global oil and gas supplies.

Antonio Guterres warned that disruptions in this crucial maritime corridor disproportionately affect vulnerable economies, stating that when such a chokepoint is constrained, the consequences ripple across the world.

India Urges Diplomacy and De-escalation

Since the conflict escalated in late February, India has consistently advocated for restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement. It has called on all nations to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity while working toward peaceful resolution.

As tensions persist, India reiterated that restoring stability in the region is essential not just for regional peace, but for safeguarding global economic health.