Iran-Israel War: After Shivalik, Nanda Devi crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday and is heading towards the Indian subcontinent. Nanda Devi is carrying more than 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The ships, Shivalik and Nandadevi, have been provided a safe passage to navigate through the waters after strategic discussions between India and Iran. While many countries have turned a blind eye towards Tehran, India continued to keep its diplomatic relations intact with the Islamic nation.
India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has had four phone calls with the Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Aragachi. The Indian official had contacted the Iranian official on February 28, the day their supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed amid the strikes of the US and Israel. Calls were also made on March 5, 10, and 12 to ensure the ties do not strain in the volatile situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also held a discussion with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
India’s Cautiousness Was Reflected In Its Reactions
India’s stance for Iran had changed over the past few days. Initially, the Indian authorities did not issue any hard hit statements about the killing of Khamenei. As the war intensified, India’s reflected the Iranian destructions changed. India's reaction to Khamenei's death came after five days of the killing. When questioned about the delay, the MEA claimed that the condolence book was signed on the first day it was opened. However, the government failed to explain the exact reason for the delay.
On March 12, Prime Minister Modi spoke to the Iranian President. Sharing a post, he wrote, "The safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, are India's top priorities. " Experts pointed out that even as India and Iran are both members of BRICS, India in the initial days chose not to condemn the attack and the killing. "India has been very cautious and careful," the Times of India quoted the expert as saying.
On Friday, India expressed grief over the killing of students in an elementary school in Minab, Iran. The public condemnation came just a day before Indian tankers had to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
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How Was The Negotiation Achieved?
The Indian representatives claimed that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz will not only cost the energy markets around the world but will also create hindrance in the smooth passage for countries such as India, which relies heavily on the waterway. New Delhi clarified that it's a region that is not connected to any of the sides in the conflict. Therefore, becoming a cause in the larger geopolitical tension would not be a fair deal.
Tehran acknowledged the concern by letting the Indian tankers pass through its waterways. The move highlighted that Iran's fight is strictly restricted to its adversaries and that it does not intend to harm any other power in the tough times as well.
According to a News 18 report, eight LPG tankers are currently awaiting their entry just outside the Strait of Hormuz, unable to proceed due to the tense security situation in the region. The Indian authorities are in constant touch with Iranian authorities to help facilitate the safe movement of these vessels.
Is It A Mutual Concession?
Reports said that around 250 Iranian sailors are currently stranded in India, awaiting arrangements to return home. Indian authorities have provided them temporary accommodation and assistance while efforts are underway to organise their repatriation.
India, unlike other countries, has maintained a neutral stand in the international arena when it comes to diplomacy. New Delhi has maintained a balanced approach with controversial leaders. On one hand, building strong partnerships with countries such as the United States and Israel; on the other hand, it also continued dialogue and cooperation with Iran.