India today condemned the recent attacks on UN peacekeepers deployed in UNIFIL and called for ensuring their safety and security. Briefing media in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India seeks accountability for crimes against peacekeepers as one of the largest and longest-serving contributors to peacekeeping. Mr Jaiswal highlighted that there are 600 Indian troops in UNIFIL, which have made a significant contribution to global peacekeeping and security under the aegis of UN-mandated peacekeeping missions.
The spokesperson said New Delhi is in touch with Iran and other countries in that region for unimpeded and safe transit for Indian ships carrying LPG, LNG and other products. He highlighted that six Indian ships have been able to safely cross the Strait of Hormuz, and India continues to be in touch with relevant parties.
Mr Jaiswal also informed that the UK has invited several countries, including India, for talks on the Strait of Hormuz. He added that the Foreign Secretary will attend the meeting. He further informed that India continues to supply energy requirements to Bangladesh and has recently supplied 38 thousand metric tonnes of petroleum products to Sri Lanka, based on their request. He said the Maldives government has also reached out to India for the supply of petroleum products, both on a short-term and long-term basis. Mr Jaiswal said all requests are being examined, keeping in mind India’s own availability and needs.
Replying to a query, the spokesperson said 10 million Indian citizens reside in Gulf nations, and they are safe. He said Indian embassies in all these countries remain in constant touch with them. He expressed regret that eight Indian citizens have lost their lives in this conflict so far, and one remains missing. Mr Jaiswal assured that the Ministry of External Affairs, in coordination with the Ministry of Shipping and all Indian embassies in the region, are dedicated to safeguarding the security and interests of Indian citizens. He said New Delhi is closely monitoring all developments and activities related to the ongoing conflict and the Strait of Hormuz.
The spokesperson further stated that 204 Indian nationals have been able to leave Iran for Azerbaijan through the land border. Several of them have returned, and others will be returning in the course of the next few days. Mr Jaiswal expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijan government for the support that they have rendered for the exit of Indian nationals from Iran through the land border.
On the Bahrain resolution under consideration in the UN Security Council, the spokesperson informed that the members of the Security Council are currently negotiating the text. He said India stands for free and open commercial shipping and for maritime security in keeping with international law. He reiterated the call for ensuring safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz as a matter of priority.
