NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday engaged in diplomatic dialogue with his Iranian counterpart, H. Amirabdollahian, regarding the concerning issue of 17 Indian crew members detained by Iranian special forces aboard the commercial vessel MSC Aries.
Expressing India’s apprehension, Minister Jaishankar emphasised the necessity for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic channels, particularly in light of Iran’s recent missile and drone attacks on Israel.
The vessel, MSC Aries, with a crew comprising Indians, Filipinos, Pakistanis, Russians, and Estonians, was apprehended by Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz, near the UAE’s offshore waters, on Saturday, according to the operator.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Minister Jaishankar underscored conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian, highlighting the imperative nature of releasing 17 detained Indian crew members and addressing the broader regional situation. Both ministers affirmed their commitment to maintaining open lines of communication to navigate through the challenges.
Additionally, Minister Jaishankar also engaged in discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, expressing shared concerns over recent developments in the region. Their conversation delved into the broader regional dynamics, with a mutual agreement to maintain ongoing dialogue to address the evolving situation.
These diplomatic exchanges underscore India’s proactive engagement in regional affairs and commitment to safeguarding the interests and welfare of its citizens abroad while advocating for peaceful resolutions to regional tensions.
