Blockades in Red Sea and Persian Gulf: Why India Is Deeply Concerned

India has expressed deep concern over disruptions in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz, warning that attacks on shipping threaten regional stability, energy supplies and freedom of navigation.

India’s Stand

• India has called for free, safe and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways.
• New Delhi maintains that attacks on commercial vessels, seafarers, civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable.
• India has urged de-escalation and restoration of peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy

Why Bab-el-Mandeb Matters

• Bab-el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea.
• It is a critical maritime chokepoint for trade between Asia, Europe and the Mediterranean region.
• Houthi attacks in and around the route can disrupt shipping, energy transportation and global supply chains.

Why Strait of Hormuz Matters

• The Strait of Hormuz is a vital gateway between the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea.
• Disruptions there directly affect oil and gas shipments, maritime trade and India’s energy security.
• India has repeatedly stressed that freedom of navigation through Hormuz must be protected under international law.

Houthi Attacks and Saudi Arabia

• India condemned attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, civilian infrastructure and economic assets.
• New Delhi said such attacks undermine regional stability and navigation through Bab-el-Mandeb.
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed the situation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.

Concern for Indian Seafarers

• Indian nationals form a significant part of the global merchant-shipping workforce, making maritime instability a direct concern for India.
• In the latest Oman incident, 13 Indian crew members were rescued and one remained missing, with Omani authorities assisting search operations.
• India has increasingly emphasised seafarer safety and maritime situational awareness during the wider West Asia crisis.

Energy Security

• Despite the regional tensions, the MEA said India was continuing to receive energy supplies from the region.
• However, simultaneous pressure on Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb increases risks to crude oil, LPG and other energy shipments.

Significance for India

• Energy Security: West Asia remains crucial for India’s oil and gas imports.
• Trade Security: Red Sea and Gulf routes are important for India’s trade with Europe and West Asia.
• Seafarer Safety: Large numbers of Indian sailors work aboard vessels operating through these routes.
• Supply Chains: Blockades can increase freight, insurance and logistics costs.
• Strategic Interest: Stable international waterways are essential for India’s economic and maritime interests.

India’s concern is not limited to the regional conflict itself; disruption of Bab-el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz simultaneously threatens energy security, international commerce, supply chains and the safety of Indian seafarers.