Mahajan alleged that the U.S. action constituted a serious violation of international law governing the seas, armed conflict, and human rights
Seafarers operating in regions where commercial shipping is entangled in geopolitical conflict are at a greater risk; diplomatic engagement alone may not suffice, they should not be compelled to sail through war-risk zones without full disclosure of risks and their informed consent
India is the current Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association; Although the IORA’s charter explicitly bars members from raising issues that do not concern regional cooperation, in the broader scheme of things, India could look to utilise the forum for airing its concerns in the maritime space
The Secretary-General underscored that the exercise of navigational rights and freedoms, in accordance with international law, must be respected
Parvathaneni said India is firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping, as many of its nationals are prominent in its global workforce