India Urges Iran to Halt Attacks on Commercial Shipping Amid Rising Tensions

In a recent phone call, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged Iran to refrain from attacking commercial shipping and seafarers, condemning any such actions. This plea comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where 16 Indian nationals have lost their lives due to the ongoing conflict. Jaishankar emphasized India's commitment to dialogue and diplomacy while expressing serious concerns over the safety of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation remains critical as India continues to monitor developments closely.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 21:51 IST

India's Strong Message to Iran

New Delhi: On Friday, India firmly called on Iran to refrain from any attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressing this sentiment during a conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Jaishankar emphasized that India condemns any such acts by any party involved.

During their phone call, Jaishankar conveyed India's serious concerns regarding the escalating hostilities in the region. He urged that all parties must avoid any actions that could harm commercial shipping and maritime personnel.

Jaishankar also mentioned that he was informed about Iran's viewpoint on the ongoing situation and the discussions taking place. He reiterated India's commitment to dialogue and diplomatic solutions.

This exchange occurred against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, with India increasingly worried about attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh revealed that since February, 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have lost their lives due to the conflict in West Asia, with an additional 75 individuals injured.

Singh detailed the casualties, noting that the fatalities occurred across various countries, including one in Saudi Arabia, two in Kuwait, eight in Oman, one in Iraq, and four in the UAE. The injuries were reported in several locations, including 32 in the UAE and 24 in Oman.

Additionally, Singh mentioned a separate incident unrelated to the conflict, where 12 Indian nationals died in an explosion at the Ras Laffan Gas Facility in Qatar in June.