‘People are being dragged into a war that isn’t theirs’: Tharoor on Indian ships’ safe passage
New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has raised concerns over the safety of Indian-flagged vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking to the media, Tharoor highlighted the dangers faced by Indian crew members and urged Iran to ensure safe passage. “Already, a ship bound for Kandla with Indian crew members onboard was hit twice,” Tharoor said. “Iranians must show some respect for those who have been friendly and reasonable with them. The problem with this conflict right now is that people are being dragged into this, whose war it isn’t.”
Most commercial ships have avoided the strait since the conflict escalated on February 28, fearing attacks amid military hostilities. Earlier this week, a Liberian-flagged tanker carrying Saudi crude oil also safely docked in Mumbai, becoming the first India-bound tanker to complete the hazardous journey since hostilities intensified.
India has been closely monitoring the situation, given the large number of Indian seafarers and vessels operating in the region. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to ensure maritime safety. Indian authorities are coordinating with shipping companies to safeguard crews and vessels.
The Strait of Hormuz is critical for global energy transport, handling over 20 million barrels of crude oil daily, nearly a fifth of worldwide consumption. Any disruption can significantly impact global oil prices and energy supply chains. Iran has issued warnings that vessels must seek permission before entering the strait, adding uncertainty for maritime traffic.
The conflict has already led to casualties, including one Indian crew member lost in an attack near Basra, Iraq, on a US-owned tanker sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. The remaining Indian crew have been safely evacuated. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor condemned the attacks on Indian ships, urging Iran to respect nations acting reasonably amid the conflict, while warning that US President Donald Trump’s unpredictable stance complicates resolution efforts.
Despite ongoing threats, the safe passage of these two vessels marks a cautious but positive step for India’s maritime and energy interests.