India has issued a stern call for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its critical role in global trade and India’s energy security. Speaking at an international summit hosted by Britain, attended by 60 nations, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri asserted that India has been a direct victim of the ongoing conflict, losing its citizens to the unrest in these waters.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), three Indian sailors have died while working on foreign vessels stranded in the Strait. Overall, eight Indians have lost their lives in the broader conflict zone, with one person still missing. With over 10 million Indians working in the Gulf region, their safety remains New Delhi’s biggest concern. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that 204 Indians were recently evacuated from Iran via the Azerbaijan border, for which India expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijani government.

The closure of this vital maritime route has led to a surge in global oil prices, directly impacting the Indian economy. As India’s fuel supply heavily relies on West Asia, New Delhi is pushing for a diplomatic resolution to ensure the stability of the region and the safety of its diaspora. India remains firm that free navigation in international waters is non-negotiable for global economic health.