MEA calls Iran vessel claim ‘baseless’, denies any such talks
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday dismissed as “baseless” reports claiming that Iran had sought the return of three vessels seized by India in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Addressing a media briefing on recent developments in West Asia, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that no such discussions have taken place between India and Iran. He further stated that the vessels in question are neither Iranian-owned nor crewed by Iranian nationals.
The remarks came amid reports suggesting that Iran had linked the safe passage of Indian-flagged or India-bound ships through the Strait of Hormuz to the return of certain vessels.
Jaiswal said India remains engaged in discussions with Iran and other countries regarding ships currently in the region. He noted that several vessels are still in the Strait of Hormuz area and that efforts are underway to ensure their safe return.
Reiterating India’s position on the ongoing tensions in West Asia, the MEA spokesperson called for de-escalation through dialogue and urged all parties to exercise restraint. He said India continues to advocate for diplomatic engagement to resolve the conflict.
Jaiswal also underlined India’s longstanding call for reforms in global governance institutions, including the United Nations, stating that early reform is essential for improving the effectiveness of the global body.
On the role of BRICS, he noted that differing positions among member countries involved in the conflict have made consensus challenging. However, India, as the current BRICS President, remains engaged with all stakeholders.
He added that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed the West Asia situation with European counterparts during his recent visit to Brussels.
Meanwhile, Joint Secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan informed that the mortal remains of two Indian nationals who lost their lives in an incident in Oman’s Sohar city have been brought back to Jaipur and handed over to their families.
He said Indian missions in the region are working closely with authorities in Oman, Iraq, and the UAE to facilitate the repatriation of mortal remains of other deceased nationals and to trace a missing Indian citizen.
Mahajan also said that 15 Indian crew members from the vessel Safesea Vishnu, who were evacuated off the coast of Basra in Iraq, are safe and are being assisted for their return to India.
-ANI
