Iran-Israel war LIVE: India to attend U.K.-led meeting on Strait of Hormuz
French President Emmanuel Macron, who has worked with European and other allies to build a coalition to guarantee free passage through Hormuz once hostilities have stopped, said this could only be done by talking to Iran
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Context
Amidst an escalating military conflict between Israel and Iran, India is attending a U.K.-led meeting concerning the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The has stated that India's priorities are the safety of its citizens in the region, diplomatic engagement for de-escalation, and addressing threats to energy security and global supply chains.
UPSC Perspectives
Economic & Energy Security
The conflict critically threatens India's energy security, a state of having reliable and affordable access to energy sources. India's economy is highly vulnerable to disruptions in West Asia, as it imports over 88% of its crude oil and around 50% of its natural gas, with a significant portion traditionally transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. A blockade or conflict in this chokepoint (a strategic narrow passage that can be easily controlled or blocked) can lead to severe supply chain disruptions, a spike in global oil prices, and consequently, imported inflation in India. This impacts everything from transportation fuel costs to the price of essential goods and fertilisers, thereby affecting food security. India's response includes diversifying energy sources, enhancing its Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR), and using diplomatic channels to secure safe passage for its vessels, following Iran's pledge of safe passage to nations like the Philippines. UPSC aspirants should analyze the long-term measures India is taking to de-risk its energy supply, such as the and the push for renewable energy under the .
Geopolitical & Strategic
This event highlights India's practice of multi-alignment and its role as a balancing power in a multipolar world. India maintains crucial strategic partnerships with both Israel (in defence and technology) and Iran (for regional connectivity and historical ties), as well as with the US and other Western powers. The conflict forces India to perform a delicate diplomatic balancing act, advocating for de-escalation while protecting its core interests. India's participation in the UK-led meeting and its naval deployments under [Operation Sankalp] showcase its commitment to being a Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean Region. This operation, initiated in 2019, aims to ensure the safe passage of Indian-flagged vessels through the region, demonstrating the 's capability to protect vital Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs). From a legal perspective, India's actions are anchored in international maritime law, specifically the right of innocent passage and transit passage through international straits, as codified in the . Aspirants should study India's evolving West Asia policy, moving from a purely economic focus to a more strategic engagement that balances relationships with rival blocs.
Diaspora & Governance
The safety and welfare of the large Indian diaspora in West Asia is a paramount concern for the Indian government. With over 9 million Indians in the Gulf region, any conflict poses a significant risk and potential for a large-scale humanitarian crisis, necessitating robust evacuation plans. The , through its embassies, plays a crucial governance role by issuing travel advisories, registering citizens, and coordinating potential evacuations, as seen in past operations like 'Operation Rahat' (Yemen) and 'Operation Ajay' (Israel-Gaza). These recurring crises highlight the need for a strategic diaspora evacuation policy that moves beyond reactive missions. There is a growing demand for a more institutionalized framework, including a dynamic database of vulnerable citizens and pre-negotiated bilateral agreements for safe passage. The situation underscores the evolution of India's diaspora policy from one of 'active dissociation' in the early years to now viewing the diaspora as a strategic asset and a state responsibility.