India Engages in UK-Led Talks on Strait of Hormuz Transit
India's Participation in Strait of Hormuz Discussions
The Ministry of External Affairs announced on Thursday that India will take part in discussions organized by the United Kingdom regarding the reopening of transit routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
During a weekly press briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed, "The UK has invited several nations, including India, to engage in talks about the Strait of Hormuz. Our Foreign Secretary will be attending the meeting."
Notably, the United States will not be present at these discussions, as President Trump has stated that ensuring security in the waterway is not a responsibility of the US, according to reports.
Following the meeting of foreign ministers, there will be subsequent working-level discussions to finalize the details.
Jaiswal also mentioned that India is maintaining communication with Iran and other regional nations to guarantee safe passage for its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
Jaiswal noted, "In recent days, we have successfully facilitated the passage of six Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz, and we continue to coordinate with relevant parties."
India's energy supplies have faced interruptions since the onset of the conflict in West Asia, with Iran effectively blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for approximately 20% of the world's petroleum liquids.
This blockade has impacted India's LPG supplies, as the nation imports around 60% of its LPG needs, primarily from Gulf nations.
On Wednesday, commercial LPG prices surged by Rs 195.5 due to rising global energy costs linked to the ongoing conflict. In Delhi, a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder is now priced at Rs 2,078.5.
Following an attack on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28, citing threats to Israel's security, Iran has retaliated by targeting Israeli and US military installations in the region.
Israel has raised concerns that Iran is nearing the capability to develop a nuclear weapon, which could significantly alter the regional security dynamics. Iran, however, insists that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes.