‘Targeting commercial shipping is unacceptable’: India urges safe navigation in Strait of Hormuz at UN

NEW DELHI: India on Thursday raised serious concerns with the United Nations over threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, urging an immediate resumption of safe navigation and calling for restraint and de-escalation amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.Ambassador Harish P, Permanent Representative of India, said during the United Nations General Assembly debate on the “Situation in the Middle East” veto initiative that maritime security is crucial to India’s energy and economic interests.He said: “One area of ​​particular concern for India is its energy and economic security, involving commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. India regrets that commercial shipping has become a military target in this conflict.”He said that India strongly condemns attacks on civilian maritime activities and emphasized that such acts are unacceptable.“We reiterate that it is unacceptable to target commercial shipping, endanger innocent civilian crews or otherwise impede freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.Harish called for compliance with international law and urged the international community to ensure free flow of trade on the strategic waterway.“International law in this regard must be fully respected. We strongly urge the early restoration of safe, unhindered navigation and freedom of global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz,” Harish said.He highlighted the human toll of the conflict and noted that Indian nationals were also affected.“During the course of the conflict, the Indian seafarers on board lost their precious lives,” he added.Turning to Iran and the wider conflict in the Gulf, Harish reiterated India’s consistent calls for restraint and diplomacy.He said: “Since the conflict between Iran and the Gulf region broke out on February 28, 2026, India has expressed deep concern about it and urged all countries to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize the safety of civilians.”“We urge all countries to promote dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues purposefully,” he added.Harish reiterated India’s stance on sovereignty, “We also call for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.”India’s comments come amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing concerns about potential disruption to global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors.