Source: Indian Navy in a threatening Read Sea, Indian Express, December 30
- Shipping’s Vital Role: Shipping serves as the backbone of global trade, facilitating the movement of goods across vast distances efficiently and affordably. The Indian Ocean witnesses a substantial volume of maritime traffic annually, with nearly 100,000 merchant vessels transporting a significant portion of the world’s oil and cargo to various destinations.
- Security Imperative: Maintaining order at sea is crucial not only for India’s interests but also as an international obligation. The Indian Navy has demonstrated commendable responsiveness in addressing emergent challenges in the Red Sea, aligning with its role as a preferred security partner in the region.
- Challenges at Choke Points: The Indian Ocean is bordered by narrow passages known as choke points, where shipping traffic faces heightened vulnerability to interdiction by states, pirates, and terrorists. Of particular concern are choke points such as the Bab al Mandab Strait, where Iran-backed Houthi rebels have targeted US Navy units and merchant ships, disrupting trade routes.
- Escalating Tensions: Houthi rebels claim to target vessels associated with Israel, leading to concerns over increased risks to maritime security. Efforts to safeguard Red Sea shipping, such as the US-led “Operation Prosperity Guardian,” have faced challenges due to geopolitical complexities and potential escalations with Iran.
- India’s Strategic Response: India has deployed warships to the region to demonstrate its naval presence and reassure stakeholders. However, constraints exist, including the jurisdiction of flag states over vessels and the evolving threat of drone warfare, posing challenges for maritime security efforts.
- Call for Diplomatic Intervention: Given the potential escalation of conflict, India must leverage its diplomatic relations with Iran and Israel to advocate for moderation and restraint. Preventing further destabilization in West Asia is crucial to safeguarding the Indian Ocean’s security and stability.