In light of the Indian Navy's deployment of its warships to assist merchant vessels entangled in the tumultuous expanse of the Red Sea region, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar articulated on Tuesday that India's enhanced capabilities, vested interests, and esteemed reputation necessitate such proactive involvement during challenging circumstances.
Jaishankar's comments coincide with the Indian Navy's dispatch of its warships in response to distress signals from merchant vessels navigating the Red Sea region, where incidents of attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants have been reported.
Engaging with students at the Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai, Jaishankar elaborated on the Navy's deployment of ten ships in the area, addressing the dual challenge of piracy and drone attacks faced by maritime operations.
Highlighting recent interventions, Jaishankar recounted how an Indian naval vessel swiftly responded to extinguish a fire and rescue the crew of a tanker besieged by a drone attack, further aiding Pakistani and Iranian fishermen imperiled by pirates.
Jaishankar underscored India's evolving narrative in maritime security over the past decade, emphasizing the nation's burgeoning capability, influence, and international standing as impelling factors driving its proactive role in addressing regional crises.
Asserting that India's engagement in such crises reflects its commitment to global responsibility, Jaishankar stressed that inaction amidst adversity would undermine India's reputation as a responsible nation. He emphasized that India's proactive stance in such situations garners positive regard and fosters amicable relations with other nations.
The Indian Navy's swift response to crises has been evident, as exemplified by the recent rescue of 19 Pakistani crew members from a vessel attacked by pirates off the east coast of Somalia by INS Sumitra. Similarly, the thwarting of a piracy attempt on an Iranian fishing vessel Iman near the Gulf of Aden underscores India's proactive stance in ensuring maritime security.
Noteworthy was the Navy's assistance in containing a fire aboard the oil tanker MV Marlin Luanda, with 22 Indian crew members, in the Gulf of Aden, which had been targeted by a missile attack. Such instances underscore India's commitment to safeguarding maritime interests and fostering stability in the region.
