India urges Iran to protect shipping
Analysis based on 9 articles · First reported Jul 31, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026
The conflict threatens key shipping lanes in the Middle East and Black Sea, potentially disrupting global trade and energy supplies, raising freight and insurance costs. India's diplomatic efforts aim to protect its large seafarer population and ensure maritime trade continuity, which is critical for regional economies.
Amid ongoing West Asia hostilities, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on July 31, 2026. Jaishankar conveyed India's deep concerns over the escalating conflict and strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstances. He reiterated India's condemnation of any such attacks by any party and reaffirmed India's support for dialogue and diplomacy. Araghchi briefed Jaishankar on Iran's perspective of current developments. The call followed a India — Cabinet Committee on Security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review the safety of Indian seafarers in conflict zones, directing ministries to establish a mechanism for timely information, emergency assistance, and counselling. India also reported that 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have died and 75 injured since the conflict began in February. Separately, Jaishankar spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, condemning attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea after an Indian seafarer was killed aboard the MV Omorfi. The India — Ministry of External Affairs has helped evacuate 2,557 Indians from Iran via Armenia and Azerbaijan.
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