Jaishankar hails talks with Iran to open Strait of Hormuz
What's the story
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has praised direct negotiations with Iran as the best way to reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The statement was made in an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday. "I am at the moment engaged in talking to them, and my talking has yielded some results," Jaishankar said, adding that discussions are still ongoing.
Diplomatic progress
Jaishankar's phone call with Iranian counterpart
Jaishankar has had four phone conversations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi since Iran shut the Strait of Hormuz. The closure has disrupted oil and fuel shipments to several countries. "Certainly, from India's perspective, it is better that we reason and we coordinate and we get a solution than we don't," he said in the interview.
Shipping update
No 'blanket arrangement' for India-flagged vessels
Jaishankar also highlighted the successful transit of two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, through the Strait. The vessels are carrying around 92,712 metric tons of LPG to India. However, he clarified that there is no "blanket arrangement" with Iran for India-flagged vessels and no concessions have been offered in exchange.
Conflict escalation
US, Israel assassinate Iran's Khamenei, triggering Strait of Hormuz closure
The West Asia conflict intensified after the US and Israel attacked Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran targeted American and Israeli interests across Gulf nations, disrupting vital maritime routes and rattling global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the world's oceans and is critical for global trade.
Diplomatic dialogue
PM Modi speaks to Iranian President Pezeshkian
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 12 about the situation in West Asia. He expressed concern over rising tensions and civilian casualties. "Reiterated India's commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy," PM Modi said in a post on X after the conversation.