India Calls for Immediate De‑escalation in West Asia, Condemns Attacks on Shipping

India described the recent escalation in West Asia as deeply worrying and called for immediate de‑escalation at the UN Security Council on October 15, 2026. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish warned that attacks on civilian infrastructure, including Saudi airports, have killed Indian citizen Mohammad Yousef Ali in Riyadh. He condemned repeated strikes on commercial vessels such as the India‑flagged MV DP World Cauvery, MT Petro Dolphin, MT Valthera, MT On Peace and MT Kazimah III, stressing that freedom of navigation must be upheld. The envoy highlighted India’s high stakes in Middle‑East stability and pledged solidarity with Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty. He noted that India and Liberia launched a Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers with 23 member states, aiming to protect nearly two million seafarers who run four‑fifths of global trade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposal for a Seafarers Emergency Support Network was recalled as a practical step. India reaffirmed support for Yemen’s unity, condemned attacks on the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait, and warned that focus on the Strait of Hormuz must not eclipse the Gaza humanitarian crisis. The ambassador reiterated India’s commitment to a negotiated two‑state solution for Palestine and highlighted a cumulative UNRWA contribution of over $52 million. He also stressed the need to protect UNIFIL peacekeepers and prepare for a post‑UNIFIL scenario supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Context

India’s statements link maritime security to broader regional stability, reflecting its large merchant‑navy workforce and dependence on sea trade. The Group of Friends platform seeks coordinated diplomatic pressure to stop attacks that threaten both Indian nationals and global commerce.