In the midst of ongoing tensions in the Middle East, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish P, expressed grave concerns on Thursday regarding threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. He called for restraint and de-escalation while urging the immediate restoration of safe navigation, according to ANI.
During the UN General Assembly debate on "The Situation in the Middle East," Harish P. delivered India's contribution under the Veto Initiative, emphasising the continued importance of maritime security for India's economic and energy interests.Commercial shipping across the Strait of Hormuz is a factor that India is particularly concerned about for its energy and economic security. He stated, "India has regretted the fact that this conflict has made commercial shipping a target of military attacks.

Indian nationals have been among the victims, according to Harish P, who highlighted the human cost of the fighting.
We have called on all states to actively address fundamental concerns, encourage communication and diplomacy, and de-escalate tensions.
"We have also called for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states...India has deplored the fact that commercial shipping was made a target of military attacks in this conflict," he continued. Throughout the fight, Indian seamen on ships have lost their priceless lives. We reaffirm that it is unacceptable to target commercial ships, put innocent civilian crew members at danger, or otherwise obstruct freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz.

In this sense, international law must be strictly adhered to. Harish added, "We strongly urge the restoration of safe and unhindered freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible."
Harish reiterated its position on sovereignty, saying, "We have also called for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states."
Increased geopolitical tensions and worries about disruptions to global oil supply routes via the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for international trade, are the reasons behind India's engagement.

The strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman are connected by the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow canal that narrows to around 33 kilometres (21 miles) at its tightest point.
From there, ships can access international shipping lanes. The strait is commonly seen as an international route accessible to all ships, despite Iran and Oman controlling parts of its waters. This vital waterway is near to the United Arab Emirates, which is home to the tall, skyline-filled city of Dubai, according to the AP.The Strait of Hormuz has been an important trading route throughout history, enabling the transportation of products from China, including textiles, silk, ivory, and pottery.
Supertankers carrying gas and oil from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran now use it as a crucial route. China, which continues to be Iran's only major oil consumer, receives the majority of this energy from Asian markets.