Red Sea crisis: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced its apprehensions on Thursday over the ongoing escalations in the Red Sea, emphasizing that it is a matter of concern for India.International Dialogues and ConcernsResponding to queries regarding discussions with major powers on the Red Sea situation and New Delhis policy on the issue, MEAs official spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated during a weekly press briefing, It is a matter of concern, not just for us, but for several international players. We have been discussing this with our interlocutors...the French President was here, with Iran when our External Affairs Minister traveled there, and also with the UAE President when he was here.Maritime Security and Indias StandHighlighting Indias stance on the matter, the spokesperson underscored the significance of addressing maritime security and ensuring freedom of navigation. Jaiswal affirmed, We want to address maritime security we want to address freedom of navigation, as to how we can secure these lanes.Active Role of Indian NavyThe spokesperson acknowledged the active role of the Indian Navy in the region, stating, The Indian Navy is active in this area, in the Gulf of Aden, in the Arabian Sea, and they have been providing support... to several vessels, not just Indian, but of other nations as well, and of course, supporting Indian sailors on them, which has been widely reported and widely appreciated.External Affairs Ministers Earlier StatementsExternal Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had previously addressed the escalating maritime security challenges, particularly in the Red Sea. He highlighted a perceptible increase in threats to the safety of maritime commercial traffic in a crucial part of the Indian Ocean, emphasizing the impact on Indias energy and economic interests. Jaishankar noted that such a situation is not beneficial to any party and must be recognized.Incidents in the Indian Ocean RegionIn recent incidents, cargo ships in the Indian Ocean region, including the India-bound MV Chem Pluto carrying 21 Indians, came under attack. The Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram escorted the vessel to the Mumbai coast.As concerns linger over developments in the Red Sea, India continues to engage in diplomatic dialogues and emphasizes the need for maritime security in the region.
