The Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, stated on Tuesday that reports alleging Iran requested the return of three vessels seized by India in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz are unfounded. During an Inter-Ministerial Briefing on Recent Developments in West Asia held in New Delhi, Jaiswal emphasized that “there has been no discussion between Indian and Iranian authorities of this nature,” and confirmed that the vessels in question are not owned by Iran and do not carry Iranian crew members. He clarified that these vessels are not tankers but are classified differently.

Context of the Claims Around the Strait of Hormuz

These remarks from the MEA spokesperson came in response to circulating reports asserting that Iran intended to negotiate the return of three tankers seized by India as a condition for allowing Indian-flagged or India-bound vessels safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Jaiswal indicated that India is actively engaged in discussions with Iran regarding other ships currently positioned in the same maritime area. “We aim to collaborate with Iran and other nations to ensure the safe return of these ships,” he stated, underscoring India’s commitment to resolving maritime issues through dialogue.

Ongoing Efforts to Address Regional Tensions

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, which saw the US and Israel conducting strikes that led to the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, India has reiterated its longstanding position advocating for de-escalation through dialogue. The confrontation has led to retaliatory actions from Tehran targeting US military installations and Israeli interests across the Gulf region. Jaiswal reiterated India’s stance of encouraging a diplomatic approach to resolve conflicts as swiftly as possible and called for restraint from all involved parties.

Diplomatic Engagement on Global Governance

During the briefing, Jaiswal also highlighted India’s long-standing call for reforms in global governance structures, particularly within the United Nations, urging for timely changes to enhance its effectiveness for global stability. Emphasizing the need for reform, he remarked, “The sooner we reform the UN, the better it will serve the world.” The spokesperson also explained that ongoing conflicts among various BRICS members complicate efforts to unify positions but affirmed India’s commitment to engaging with all relevant stakeholders amidst such challenges.

Recent Developments in West Asia: Ministerial Engagements

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed the situation in West Asia during his recent trip to Brussels, where he met European counterparts to address pressing global challenges, including the unfolding conflicts in the region. Jaiswal shared that these discussions were essential in fostering international cooperation concerning the ongoing tensions.

Condolences for Indian Nationals Affected in Oman

Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf) at the Ministry of External Affairs, provided an update on the tragic incident in Sohar city, Oman, where two Indian nationals lost their lives. Their mortal remains were received by family members in Jaipur. Mahajan expressed condolences and confirmed that the embassy is in continuous contact with hospital authorities to monitor the condition of other injured Indian nationals, none of whom are reported critically injured.

Assistance for Indian Crew Members in Iraq

Regarding the incident involving the Safesea Vishnu off the coast of Iraq, Mahajan noted that a mission team is on the ground to facilitate the early return of 15 Indian crew members who were safely evacuated. They are currently being accommodated in a hotel in Basra while efforts continue to coordinate with Iraqi authorities for the repatriation of an Indian national who lost his life during the incident. He further mentioned that Indian missions across the region are engaged in retrieving the mortal remains of various deceased nationals.

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