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India Raised Alarm at the UN Over Attacks on Merchant Ships. (Img Internet)
New Delhi: India has reiterated its opposition to attacks on merchant vessels, urging the international community to safeguard commercial shipping and civilian seafarers during regional conflicts. Addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, stressed that merchant ships should never become targets in times of tension.
He emphasized that freedom of navigation and the safety of maritime routes are essential for maintaining global stability and economic activity.
During his address, Harish stated that attacks on commercial vessels and restrictions on navigation are unacceptable. He urged all parties involved in regional conflicts to adhere to international laws governing safe passage at sea.
The diplomat also highlighted the human cost of recent incidents, noting that several Indian nationals have either lost their lives or remain missing following attacks in the region. He stressed the need to prioritize the safety of civilian crews operating in international waters.
India's remarks come amid growing tensions in West Asia, where critical shipping corridors play a key role in transporting goods, oil, and natural gas across the world.
The region holds significant strategic importance for India, particularly because a large share of the country's energy imports passes through major maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption in these waterways could have consequences for energy security, trade flows, and economic stability.
Harish warned that disturbances to maritime traffic could affect not only countries in the region but also global supply chains that depend on uninterrupted shipping operations.
India also called for restraint among nations involved in regional disputes and urged diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. The country underscored the importance of international cooperation in ensuring maritime safety and protecting civilian lives.
According to India, maintaining secure shipping lanes remains essential for global commerce, regional stability, and the welfare of thousands of seafarers working across international waters.
