Unacceptable: India reacts to attacks on commercial ships in Strait Of Hormuz amid Iran-US war

Mangalore Today News Network

UK, Mar 20, 2026: Amid the toughening global energy crisis due to Iran-US war, India reacted sharply to the targeting of commercial ships in international waters. Addressing the 36th extraordinary session of the Council of the IMO, Indian Envoy to UK Vikram Doraiswami said India continues to call for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.

“India remains deeply concerned about the evolving situation and continues to call for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy, with utmost restraint and priority being given to the safety of civilians," Doraiswami said.

Further, mourning the loss of innocent lives, including three Indian seafarers, following recent attacks on commercial shipping and civilian maritime infrastructure, Doraiswami highlighted the need for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.

He also mentioned India’s 24×7 helpline for affected seafarers, along with the crucial role of the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), established in 2018 and hosted by the Indian Navy, in sharing information and coordinating rescue efforts.

“Targeting of commercial shipping and attacks on civilian maritime infrastructure is unacceptable. Such attacks have resulted in the loss of innocent lives, injuries, and heightened risks, including to seafarers. India is among the top three seafarer-supplying nations, contributing approximately 13 per cent of the global seafaring workforce. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and welfare of all seafarers," Doraiswami said.

“We reiterate that targeting commercial shipping, endangering civilian crews, and impeding safe and free navigation through international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable. The exercise of navigational rights and freedom by merchant and commercial vessels in accordance with international law must be respected," he added.

IMO Condemned Attacks Against Merchant Ships

The International Maritime Organisation Council has condemned Iran’s threats and attacks against merchant ships, urging international coordination to safeguard civilian shipping in the Gulf region.

During the 36th extraordinary session of the Council held in London on Thursday, a decision was adopted to encourage the establishment of a framework like a maritime safety corridor to facilitate the safe evacuation of merchant vessels from high-risk areas on a voluntary basis.