External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha on Monday and stated that protecting the interests of Indian consumers would remain the government’s top priority amid the escalating conflict in West Asia. He cautioned that the worsening situation could result in serious disruptions to global supply chains, potentially affecting energy availability, transportation networks, and international trade movements that are crucial to India’s economy.
Speaking in the House amid sloganeering by opposition members, Jaishankar said tensions in the region had intensified in recent days, creating growing concerns about energy supplies, maritime shipping routes, and the stability of global trade flows. He noted that the government was carefully monitoring the rapidly evolving developments and continuously assessing how the crisis might impact India’s economic stability, logistics systems, and supply networks.
He informed Parliament that the government had issued an official statement on February 20 expressing deep concern over the situation and urging all sides involved to exercise restraint. Reaffirming India’s diplomatic position, he emphasized that sustained dialogue and peaceful negotiations remain essential to de-escalate tensions and prevent the situation from spiraling further.
The minister stressed that peace and stability in West Asia are critical for the functioning of global energy markets and for safeguarding India’s strategic and economic interests. He added that New Delhi remains actively engaged with international partners while keeping a close watch on regional developments.
Jaishankar highlighted that India’s national priorities, particularly energy security and consumer welfare, would guide policy decisions during the crisis. He also underscored the government’s focus on the safety and well-being of the large Indian diaspora living and working in the region, informing the House that nearly 67,000 Indian nationals have returned home amid the rising tensions.
Referring to recent maritime developments, he mentioned India’s decision to allow the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Lavan to dock at Kochi port after Tehran requested access for three of its ships operating in regional waters. Permission was granted on March 1, and the vessel arrived on March 4.
Speaking earlier at the Raisina Dialogue, Jaishankar clarified that the decision was taken on humanitarian grounds rather than geopolitical considerations. The ship, carrying 183 crew members, most of whom were young cadets, had reported technical difficulties while sailing in the region.
The development occurred shortly before another Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Dena, was sunk by a US submarine in the Indian Ocean on March 4. The incident reportedly led to the deaths of more than 80 sailors, while around 32 personnel were later rescued by the Sri Lankan Navy. Describing the event as unfortunate, Jaishankar noted that the ship had issued a distress call and that India deployed maritime resources, including naval vessels and patrol aircraft, to assist in search-and-rescue operations.
Calling the assistance the appropriate course of action, the minister reiterated that India continues to advocate restraint and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.
Meanwhile, opposition parties criticized the government for not allowing a detailed parliamentary discussion on the issue. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said on social media platform X that Jaishankar delivered a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, a format that does not permit questions or clarifications. He added that the opposition had sought an immediate discussion on the West Asia situation, but after their request was denied, they staged a walkout following protests.
