At the 21st East Asia Summit in Manila, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strongly condemned recent attacks on seafarers and maritime infrastructure in West Asia, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable under any circumstances. He highlighted the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve ongoing conflicts, stressing that international law must guide operations in international waterways. Jaishankar stated that attacks on civilian shipping threaten not only the safety of seafarers—including Indian nationals who have recently lost their lives—but also the integrity of global trade and maritime stability.
Amid escalating tensions following the US-Israel attack on Iran, fourteen Indian nationals have died, highlighting the human cost of these maritime threats. Jaishankar pointed out that the global economy faces mounting challenges due to multiple conflicts, with energy, food, and health security at risk—especially for nations in the Global South.
He called for unified, collaborative efforts from the international community to enhance maritime security and safeguard critical trade routes. Jaishankar’s remarks underscore India’s unwavering commitment to peace, stability, and the protection of maritime interests, as well as the vital importance of upholding international law and fostering global cooperation in confronting emerging maritime challenges.
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