The Indian Navy has stepped up surveillance in the Strait of Hormuz, closely monitoring merchant vessels bound for Indian ports to ensure their safe passage amid rising tensions in West Asia. Warships are shadowing India‑bound cargo ships transiting the narrow waterway that links the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea, officials said, as part of an effort to protect vital trade routes and reassure the shipping community operating in the region.
The patrols are being carried out under Operation Sankalp, the Navy’s long‑running mission to safeguard Indian shipping and maintain maritime stability in high‑risk areas. Under this operation, naval units escort merchant vessels, maintain continuous surveillance across critical sea lanes and remain prepared to deter or respond to potential threats to commercial shipping.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, with a large share of global oil supplies-and a significant portion of India’s crude imports-moving through the corridor daily. That strategic importance makes the safety of ships and seafarers a high priority for New Delhi as regional maritime risks rise in parallel with the broader conflict in West Asia.
Officials say the Navy’s presence is intended to give confidence to merchant operators and reduce the likelihood of disruptions to trade flows. Surveillance and escort operations aim to ensure vessels bound for India can continue their journeys despite the volatile security environment.
India is also closely monitoring developments through its diplomatic and maritime agencies, coordinating with international partners and shipping authorities to minimise disruption and protect Indian cargo and seafarers. The combined military and diplomatic posture seeks to preserve uninterrupted trade and the safety of crew in one of the world’s most sensitive shipping lanes.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/india/hormuz-crisis-navy-escorting-india-bound-ships-as-iran-says-it-will-target-only-enemy-vessels-13989607.html
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Publish Date: 2026-03-15 06:36:00
