External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring the safe and unimpeded passage of maritime shipping, warning that attacks on merchant vessels are "completely unacceptable."

Speaking at the "AZEC Plus" Online Summit on Energy Resilience, convened by Japan, Jaishankar addressed the severe supply chain disruptions currently rattling global energy markets.

The Minister emphasized that global economic growth is dependent on energy markets remaining unconstricted.

"As a major energy consumer, India will work with like-minded partners to develop supply chain resilience," Jaishankar stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting India's readiness to collaborate on safeguarding critical trade routes.

The summit, chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, saw regional leaders echo these concerns.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the precarious situation in West Asia, noting that developments affecting the Strait of Hormuz serve as a stark reminder that a stable energy supply is critical for economic resilience.

Ibrahim confirmed that Malaysia, a major producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG), remains committed to supporting regional energy security and diversifying renewable sources.

The high-level discussions took place against a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Gulf. Following the collapse of US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad, the United States has initiated a naval blockade of all Iranian ports.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the blockade, which began on April 13, encompasses the entirety of the Iranian coastline.

While CENTCOM stated that the blockade is intended to interdict vessels entering or departing Iranian ports, it has sparked widespread concern over the transit of global crude supply through the Strait of Hormuz—a maritime artery that typically carries 20–25% of the world’s oil.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has similarly announced maritime access restrictions affecting Iranian coastal areas across the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

As the blockade intensifies, Asian nations—including major consumers like India and the Philippines—are bracing for continued volatility in fuel prices and supply availability.

In response, Japan announced a USD 10 billion financial cooperation package during the summit to assist Asian partners in procuring crude oil and strengthening regional energy reserves.

Source: ANI