New Delhi: Iran has agreed to allow Indian government officials to visit 17 Indian crew members detained on a cargo ship connected to Israel, which was recently seized by Iranian forces. This development followed a conversation between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart, Amir Abdollahian, wherein the former raised concerns about the wellbeing of the crew.
According to a release from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, during the call, Jaishankar sought support regarding the crew’s situation. Abdollahian responded by stating that efforts were underway to address the details surrounding the seized vessel, and arrangements for a visit by Indian representatives to the crew would soon be facilitated.
India has been actively engaging with Iranian authorities to facilitate the release of the crew members since the ship’s capture last Saturday. Minister Jaishankar emphasized the need for calm and restraint to prevent further escalation amidst growing tensions between Israel and Iran.
In a social media post on X, Jaishankar shared details of his conversation with the Iranian Foreign Minister, highlighting discussions on the regional situation and the importance of de-escalation, restraint, and a diplomatic approach. He confirmed their mutual intention to maintain ongoing communication.
Spoke to Iranian FM @Amirabdolahian this evening.
Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries.
Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy.
Agreed to remain…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) April 14, 2024
This call for restraint comes against the backdrop of recent hostilities, where Iran launched a significant attack on Israel, responding to an earlier Israeli airstrike on its facilities in Syria which resulted in casualties among the Iranian Revolutionary Guards.
Amid these rising tensions, India has urged for an immediate toning down of hostilities and instructed its embassies in the region to maintain close connections with the Indian diaspora there. The Ministry of External Affairs has expressed deep concern over the growing conflict, advocating for a swift de-escalation and a return to diplomatic negotiations to ensure regional peace and security.
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