New Delhi/Tehran: Iran has provided a formal assurance that Indian vessels will receive safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, describing New Delhi as a “friend” with deeply intertwined regional interests. This commitment comes as India intensifies diplomatic consultations with BRICS members to establish a consensus position on the escalating conflict in West Asia. The twin developments highlight India’s dual-track strategy of securing its energy and maritime interests while navigating a complex geopolitical crisis.
Speaking in New Delhi following the International Quds Day Conference, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, emphasized that Tehran recognizes India’s pivotal importance. He confirmed that high-level discussions between the two nations have been productive, suggesting that obstacles to bilateral cooperation will soon be resolved. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global oil shipments, and the safety of Indian-flagged vessels is paramount for India’s energy security. Currently, 27 Indian vessels remain operational near the Strait and the Gulf of Oman, following the successful departure of one stranded ship earlier this week.
On the diplomatic front, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that India is actively engaging with its BRICS partners to evolve a unified stance on the regional hostilities. As the current holder of the BRICS presidency, India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have maintained steady communication with their Iranian counterparts to ensure the security of trade routes and the safety of the approximately 23,000 Indian seafarers working across the Gulf region.
The humanitarian impact of the crisis remains a significant focus for New Delhi. Since late February, approximately 150,000 Indians have returned home from various West Asian countries. The Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely through a dedicated control room, noting a gradual decline in emergency requests as evacuation and safety measures take hold. With Iran underscoring the role of BRICS in maintaining global stability, India’s leadership within the grouping is seen as vital for de-escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
