Amid renewed pushes to reopen commercial sea lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, Israel’s envoy to India, Reuven Azar, lauded New Delhi’s steadfast advocacy for free maritime passage. Speaking exclusively, Azar praised India’s balanced approach in prioritizing national interests during worldwide unrest.
‘India acts with its interests front and center,’ Azar remarked. ‘Our partnership has deepened post-PM Modi’s Israel trip, yielding pacts across defense, finance, infrastructure, tech, AI, and education. India’s backing of seamless ocean navigation is welcome. Collective respect for international norms is essential to avoid pressures on key sea routes.’
On Wednesday, India endorsed the US-Iran ceasefire, anticipating enduring stability in West Asia. The foreign ministry reiterated its long-held view: ‘Reducing tensions via talks and diplomacy is the way forward. The conflict has inflicted heavy losses on lives and hampered worldwide energy and commerce.’ It voiced expectations for smooth trade and vessel movement through Hormuz.
New Delhi’s peace advocacy remains unwavering, greeting measures that foster steadiness. There’s optimism that West Asia’s shifts will bolster Ukraine peace initiatives. Pointing to Iran’s provocations, Azar observed growing unity among nations. ‘The regime’s aggression is now clear to all,’ he said. ‘Unchecked threats would have led to dire outcomes. Global awareness is rising.’
Azar anticipates Iran and America collaborating on peace, particularly as nuclear risks diminish. ‘Our military objectives are met; we’re content diplomacy resumes,’ he noted. ‘Iran should align with Trump’s 15-point strategy for regional relief.’
In closing, the envoy affirmed readiness: ‘Peace is our goal, but should violations occur or hostilities resume, our military is poised to protect us.’ This blend of hope and resolve reflects Israel’s strategic posture in turbulent times, mirroring India’s diplomatic poise.
