India summons US envoy again: What was discussed after Hormuz ship attacks?
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has once again summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks to formally protest against repeated attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz and off the Oman coast, several of which had Indian nationals on board.
The move comes amid escalating concerns over maritime security in the region, where commercial shipping routes have come under repeated disruption.
MEA flags safety of Indian seafarers
According to officials, India has strongly objected to incidents involving ships carrying Indian crew members, including a recent attack on the Guinea-Bissau-flagged oil tanker MT Jalveer, which had 20 Indian seafarers on board.
Reports also stated that earlier incidents involved US naval action against other commercial vessels, raising concerns over the safety of international shipping lanes.
The MEA reiterated its position that maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz must remain safe and unimpeded under international law.
Officials said India has consistently urged all parties to ensure the protection of commercial shipping and avoid escalation that could endanger civilian lives and global trade routes.
Rare diplomatic escalation
The summoning of a US diplomat is considered a rare diplomatic step, reflecting India’s serious concern over the safety of its citizens at sea.
The issue is expected to be raised further in ongoing diplomatic engagements between New Delhi and Washington, as both countries maintain strategic ties despite growing tensions over regional developments.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil and trade corridors. Any disruption in the region has significant implications for global energy markets and international maritime security.
India’s protest highlights the growing urgency around protecting commercial shipping lanes amid rising geopolitical instability in the Middle East.