India has expressed its strong opposition to attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers amidst ongoing conflicts in the Gulf. This statement was made during the high-level 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He highlighted that such acts are “simply unacceptable” and called for restraint from all parties involved in the current hostilities.

During his address to the UNGA, Jaishankar acknowledged India’s deep concern regarding the ongoing violence in the region. He urged all parties to lower tensions and protect civilians, while also ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce. The minister underscored the pressing need to address both the new maritime challenges and existing issues on land.

Jaishankar cited the alarming trend of targeting commercial vessels and seafarers in international waters, which he described as a significant risk. He noted the tragic loss of lives among Indian seafarers and their international counterparts due to these conflicts, stating that the situation is entirely unacceptable.

International Maritime Initiative Announced

In response to the mounting threats faced by maritime operations, India has teamed up with Liberia and 23 other nations to initiate a campaign aimed at mobilising global sentiment against these unabated attacks. Jaishankar stressed the importance of security for commercial shipping and the need for strict adherence to international law as essential components of this initiative.

On Friday, Jaishankar and his Liberian counterpart announced the formation of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers. This maritime initiative is a direct response to the persistent attacks on merchant vessels that have been reported in the region.

Referencing specific incidents, Jaishankar drew attention to the recent attack on the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier MV Cape Dao in the Gulf of Oman, which resulted in the death of an Indian sailor. He also mentioned the earlier strike on the Panama-flagged oil tanker El Gaia while it was passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which left an Indian crew member missing.

Broader Context of Maritime Security Risks

The threats to shipping and seafarers are not isolated; ongoing conflicts worldwide have increased risks in critical maritime zones, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman. Areas such as the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Bab-el-Mandeb, Black Sea, and Somali waters are now particularly perilous for merchant shipping operations.

Many Indian seafarers are employed on both Indian-flagged and foreign-flagged vessels that traverse these waters, thus they are exposed to rising security challenges. India’s focus at the UNGA highlights the urgent need for a concerted international effort to safeguard maritime traffic and ensure the safety of all involved in this vital sector.

India’s stance at the United Nations reinforces a commitment to protecting maritime routes and the individuals who work within them. The government has reiterated that attacks on shipping must cease and that the safety of seafarers should be a priority for the global community.

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