'Avoid attacks on commercial shipping Jaishankar conveys India's concerns to Iran FM

The external affairs minister said Abbas Araghchi briefed him on Iran's perspective regarding the evolving situation in West Asia and the discussions underway. External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday said he spoke with Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and conveyed India's "deep concerns" over the ongoing hostilities in the region. He asked that commercial shipping and seafarers not be targeted under any circumstances.Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar launches India's campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term. (@DrSJaishankar on X)In a post on X, Jaishankar said he held a telephonic conversation with Araghchi and repeated India's opposition to attacks on merchant vessels and crew."Had a tele-conversation with FM @araghchi of Iran this evening. Conveyed our deep concerns at the ongoing hostilities in the region," Jaishankar said."Strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance. India condemns any such attack by any party," he added.The external affairs minister said Araghchi briefed him on Iran's perspective regarding the evolving situation and the discussions currently underway."Was apprised of Iran's perspective of current developments and discussions underway. India is always supportive of dialogue and diplomacy," Jaishankar said.Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read MoreJaishankarGet the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.