In response to heightened attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, the Bharat Navy has increased its presence to safeguard global shipping routes. The situation in the Red Sea is described as “precarious and risky” by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal. The Navy recently responded to a distress call from a US-owned vessel in the Gulf of Aden, highlighting the escalating challenges faced by merchant ships in the region.
Bharat Navy Takes Action to Protect Economic Interests
The Bharat Navy, with 12 surface vessels deployed, is patrolling the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden to protect Indian shipping lines and support vessels of other nations. The MEA emphasizes the need to secure shipping lanes to safeguard India’s economic interests, as the attacks have led to increased costs for Bharat exporters due to higher freight charges and insurance premiums.
Concerns Over Impact on Commerce and Alternatives to Suez Canal
The attacks have impacted Indian exporters, leading to rising costs and delays in shipments. With the Suez Canal facing security challenges, some international shipping lines are considering the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope, impacting the flow of commerce and availability of products and services. The MEA spokesperson expresses concern about the situation and its direct bearing on Bharat’s energy and economic interests.
International Cooperation and Bharat’s Position
The talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian acknowledged the increasing threats to maritime traffic in the Indian Ocean. While the US has formed a 10-nation coalition to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea, India maintains that it is not part of any multilateral arrangement at present.
Tensions Between Bharat and Maldives Over Security Personnel Withdrawal
As tensions rise between India and the Maldives regarding the withdrawal of Indian security personnel, the MEA reiterates Bharat’s commitment to development projects in the country. The Maldivian government has set a deadline for the withdrawal of Bharat personnel, but both sides are working towards a mutually workable solution. India remains a significant development partner for the Maldives, funding projects such as the $500 million Greater Male Connectivity Project.
Ongoing Discussion and Commitment to Projects
The MEA spokesperson assures that discussions between India and the Maldives are ongoing, with the next meeting of the Bharat-Maldives high-level core group scheduled in India soon. Despite the recent tensions, India remains committed to its developmental projects in the Maldives, reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
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