India voices deep concerns over Red Sea Crisis: A closer look at unfolding situation

Red Sea Crisis: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed profound concern over recent attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, emphasizing its critical role as a vital shipping lane globally, including for India. In an official statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted India's commitment to securing shipping lines to safeguard ships from potential damage, underscoring the nation's dedication to the freedom of commerce in the region.

Ensuring Safe Navigation: Indian Navy's Involvement

Jaiswal, during the MEA's weekly briefing, mentioned External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's recent visit to Iran. The discussions with the Iranian side covered various regional and global issues, particularly focusing on the evolving situation in the region. India, closely monitoring the developments, emphasized the destabilizing nature of the situation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

"We are deeply concerned about the whole situation. It does impact not just us, but it's an important shipping lane for the world," stated Jaiswal. He highlighted the proactive role of the Indian Navy in patrolling the area, securing it, and ensuring that economic interests remain unaffected.

Indian Navy Chief's Assurance: Coordination Amid Resurgence of Piracy

Indian Navy Chief Hari Kumar, addressing the resurgence of piracy attacks, assured that the Indian Navy is actively coordinating with partner countries to ensure the safe passage of sea traffic. Despite the recent uptick in piracy, Kumar affirmed that the Indian Navy is taking robust action to prevent any piracy attempts in the Indian Ocean Region.

"We have deployed an adequate number of actions. We are not allowing any piracy to be taken," asserted Kumar during an event at Manekshaw Centre.

US Designates Houthis as Global Terrorists: Escalation in the Red Sea

In response to ongoing threats and attacks by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, the United States has designated Ansarallah, also known as the Houthis, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. The move follows the rebels' attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the US's subsequent strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attacks, citing retaliation for Israel's Gaza conflict.

The recent escalation in the Red Sea has triggered international responses, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to ensure maritime security and stability in the region. As tensions rise, global actors, including India and the United States, remain actively engaged in addressing the evolving situation.