External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Addresses Detained Indian Crew with Iranian Counterpart

On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in dialogue with his Iranian counterpart, H. Amirabdollahian, addressing the pressing matter of 17 Indian crew members detained aboard a commercial vessel seized by Iranian special forces. Amidst heightened tensions, Minister Jaishankar emphasized the necessity for Iran to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, particularly in the aftermath of its recent missile and drone onslaught targeting Israel.

The vessel in question, the MSC Aries, affiliated with Israel and carrying a crew of 25 individuals including 17 Indians alongside Filipino, Pakistani, Russian, and Estonian nationals, was apprehended as it traversed the Strait of Hormuz, approximately 80 kilometers off the coast of the UAE, in the early hours of Saturday, according to reports from the vessel's operator.

In a statement shared via social media platform X, Minister Jaishankar relayed his conversation with Iranian FM Amirabdollahian, underscoring the urgency of securing the release of the detained Indian crew members while delving into the broader regional dynamics. Stressing the imperative of diplomatic channels and the need to avert further escalation, both ministers concurred to maintain communication channels open.

Additionally, Minister Jaishankar revealed his exchange with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in a separate social media update. Expressing mutual apprehension over the recent events, the ministers engaged in discussions regarding the overarching regional landscape, affirming their commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration amidst the prevailing uncertainties.