India on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of tensions in West Asia following fresh attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) urged all sides to exercise restraint, de-escalate the situation and return to dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace and stability.

Indian Tanker Turned Back

MEA's reaction comes after an Indian oil tanker was reportedly turned back from the Oman corridor in the Strait of Hormuz as fresh tensions continue to rise in the region. According to Iran's semi-official Fars news agency, the tanker was asked to avoid the temporary route and use the corridor designated by Iran instead.

India Urges US, Iran To De-Escalate

In an official statement, the MEA said the escalating situation can threaten regional peace, security and stability. India urged all parties to exercise restraint, reduce tensions and protect civilians. It also stressed the need to ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and international trade. "India is deeply concerned over the recent attacks and escalation of tensions in West Asia, which have followed fresh targeting of commercial shipping transiting international waterways in the region," the statement noted.

ALSO READ: Iran Turns Back Indian Oil Tanker Trying To Transit Through US-Backed Oman Corridor In Strait Of Hormuz: Report

The government further called on all sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict. "India calls upon all parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and ensure protection of civilians as well as the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and commerce.We urge the parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict," the statement added.

ALSO READ: Trump Threatens To Attack Iran 'Tonight' After Declaring 'Ceasefire Is Over'; Fresh Tensions Put Middle East On Brink

Iran-US Tensions Escalate

Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump threatened to launch strikes on Iran "again tonight", hours after he declared that the interim peace agreement with Iran "is over", saying that he did not want any deal with Tehran. "I'll give a little warning: We're going to hit them hard tonight," Trump told reporters at the NATO summit in Turkey, as reported by Reuters.


Also In News