India Raises Concern Over West Asia Tensions at BRICS Meet as Indian Vessel Sinks Off Oman.
New Delhi:
An India-flagged commercial vessel reportedly sank off the coast of Oman after coming under attack in Omani waters, coinciding with the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting hosted by India in New Delhi on Thursday. All 14 crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely, officials said. Authorities are yet to confirm who was responsible for the attack.
The incident occurred amid growing tensions in West Asia and increasing concerns over maritime security in the region. The development also came as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New Delhi to participate in the BRICS ministerial meeting alongside foreign ministers from member nations.
During the meeting, India expressed serious concern over the deteriorating security situation in West Asia and its wider implications for global trade, energy supplies, and maritime movement. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized that escalating tensions around strategic maritime corridors, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, were creating uncertainty in the global economy and placing additional pressure on developing countries.
Addressing the BRICS gathering, Jaishankar said the continuing instability in the region highlighted the fragile nature of the current global order. He noted that disruptions to maritime traffic and energy infrastructure could have long-term economic consequences for nations dependent on global shipping and fuel imports.
The External Affairs Minister stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law remained the only effective and sustainable path toward peace and stability in the region. He underlined the importance of collective international efforts to prevent further escalation.
Jaishankar also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterated India’s position in support of a sustained ceasefire, uninterrupted humanitarian assistance, and meaningful efforts toward resolving the Palestine issue through a two-state solution.
The BRICS meeting in New Delhi focused on global security challenges, economic cooperation, and institutional strengthening of the grouping following its recent expansion. Jaishankar said India, as the current BRICS Chair, had already hosted more than 80 meetings under the bloc and was committed to enhancing cooperation among member nations.
Meanwhile, the sinking of the Indian vessel has once again drawn attention to the security risks faced by commercial shipping routes in West Asia, particularly amid ongoing regional conflicts and geopolitical tensions. Further investigations into the incident are expected.
