New Delhi, March 7 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar explained India’s decision to allow the Iranian vessel IRIS Lavan to dock in Kochi, calling it a humane response after the sinking of another Iranian ship, IRIS Dena, in international waters.
Jaishankar, speaking at the Raisina Dialogue, said India received a request from Iran when IRIS Lavan—part of the International Fleet Review and MILAN 2026 (Feb 15–25)—reported technical problems. India approved docking on March 1. The ship sailed in over several days and docked in Kochi; its 183 crew members are staying at naval facilities in Kochi. Jaishankar noted many on board were young cadets who had come for the fleet review and were caught up in subsequent events.
He described the sinking of IRIS Dena as unfortunate. After IRIS Dena issued a distress call that was received at MRCC Colombo, the Indian Navy promptly launched search-and-rescue efforts, including deploying a long-range maritime patrol aircraft to support Sri Lanka-led efforts. Jaishankar said India chose to receive IRIS Lavan on humanitarian grounds rather than focusing solely on legal considerations, adding that another Iranian ship had a related situation in Sri Lanka and one vessel did not survive.
Elaborating on broader Indian Ocean dynamics, Jaishankar urged recognition of the region’s realities and history of foreign bases—citing Diego Garcia’s five-decade presence, bases in Djibouti, and developments like Hambantota. He emphasized India’s investments in the region’s development and argued that the Indian Ocean is in a phase of recovery and rebuilding: restoring trade patterns, connectivity and practical projects. Building an Indian Ocean identity, he said, requires resources, commitments and sustained diplomatic work.
Jaishankar added that India’s central location in the Indian Ocean means its growth can benefit neighbouring countries that cooperate with it, and that India’s rise will be determined by its own strengths. He also highlighted the safety of merchant shipping and seafarers, noting many merchant ships are partly crewed by Indians and recent attacks have resulted in fatalities. With 9–10 million Indians living in the Gulf, their welfare and the protection of merchant mariners should receive greater prominence in policy decisions alongside economic and energy interests. (ANI)
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