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India has urged the United Nations Security Council to protect commercial shipping from geopolitical tensions and ensure freedom of navigation amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Permanent Representative P Harish said navigational rights must not face threats, coercion or unlawful restrictions.
Speaking at an informal Security Council meeting on maritime security, Harish said India supports a free, open, secure and rules-based maritime domain.
He warned that disruptions at major maritime chokepoints can affect energy and food security well beyond the immediate conflict zone.
India has also faced the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis, including the loss of Indian sailors and disruption to energy supplies.
New Delhi has raised concerns with the countries involved over incidents affecting Indian nationals and vessels.
Harish highlighted India’s efforts to maintain maritime security in the region through naval deployments.
As of September 14, Indian operations in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea had enabled more than 449 merchant vessels carrying nearly 20.3 million metric tonnes of cargo and oil, valued at over $8.4 billion, to transit safely.
He also called for greater protection of seafarers caught in conflict zones, stressing the need for timely evacuation, medical assistance, crew changes and repatriation through international cooperation.
Harish further highlighted emerging maritime threats, including attacks involving unmanned systems, cyber risks and interference with navigation and communication systems.
He said international cooperation, capacity-building and responsible use of technology would be essential to address these challenges.
India’s latest intervention comes as commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains sharply below normal levels amid the wider regional conflict, raising concerns over global energy supplies and maritime trade.
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