Iran’s Foreign Minister Expresses Gratitude to India for Docking IRIS Lavan in Kochi

New Delhi witnessed crucial developments on March 9 as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha about Iran’s appreciation for allowing the IRIS Lavan to dock at Kochi during a tense period in West Asia. Jaishankar noted that amidst difficult leadership-level contacts, the Iranian authorities expressed their gratitude on behalf of their nation for this significant gesture. The request for docking was made on February 28, followed by approval on March 1, leading to the vessel’s docking on March 4. The crew remains accommodated within Indian naval facilities.

This diplomatic action followed the incident involving the IRIS Dena, an Iranian warship that was reportedly torpedoed and sunk by a U.S. submarine, approximately 40 nautical miles off the coast of Galle, Sri Lanka. In light of the ongoing conflict, Jaishankar affirmed that India’s energy security remains a priority. He emphasized that the government is thoroughly evaluating factors such as availability, cost, and risks associated with energy markets, with the best interests of Indian consumers at the forefront of their considerations.

During his speech, Jaishankar indicated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively engaging with leaders from West Asia to discuss the regional situation. The Prime Minister has been in direct communication with the leaders of the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Israel. Jaishankar also confirmed that he has been maintaining contacts with counterparts in these nations and that diplomatic communications with the United States continue.

The Indian Embassy in Iran is fully operational and has been proactive in issuing advisories to citizens in the region, including those in Israel, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Many of these advisories were communicated around February 20, with subsequent updates on March 1, 3, and 5. In addition, the Ministry of External Affairs has established a dedicated control room to oversee the evolving situation and address concerns from Indian nationals abroad.

Jaishankar further reported that nearly 67,000 Indian nationals have successfully crossed international borders to return home. He reiterated that the government is making all necessary efforts to ensure the safe return of citizens from West Asia. Following the onset of conflict, arrangements were made to relocate Indian students in Tehran to safer locations outside the city.

The Lok Sabha session saw the Opposition MPs demanding further discussions and raising placards while entering the well of the House. Chairing the session, MP Jagadambika Pal urged the Opposition members to refrain from disruptions, emphasizing the importance of allowing the proceedings to continue. He called upon them to listen attentively to the minister’s responses regarding their concerns.

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