India Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire, Urges Free Trade Flow Through Strait of Hormuz
India on Wednesday welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran after weeks of escalating conflict.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India hopes the truce leads to lasting peace in West Asia.
The development is crucial for India as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz directly impact its energy security and trade.
India described the ceasefire as a positive step, reiterating its long-standing position on dialogue and diplomacy.
“We welcome the ceasefire reached and hope that it will lead to a lasting peace in West Asia,” Jaiswal said during a media briefing.
The ceasefire, announced by Donald Trump and Iran, followed 40 days of intense conflict that disrupted global energy supply chains.
The Strait of Hormuz, which handles nearly 50% of India’s oil imports, saw restricted movement due to security concerns. Only a limited number of Indian vessels were able to pass through during the conflict.
India has remained in touch with Iran and other stakeholders to ensure safe transit of its ships, while closely monitoring the evolving situation.
Reactions
India also expressed hope that peace efforts in West Asia could positively influence global conflicts, including Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Tehran would halt operations if attacks stopped, signalling conditional support for the truce.
The ceasefire is expected to stabilise oil supply routes and reduce pressure on global energy markets.
For India, ensuring uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains a top priority, given its heavy reliance on energy imports from the region.
Additionally, the safety of around 7,500 Indian nationals in Iran remains a key concern, with evacuation efforts ongoing through neighbouring countries.
India’s response reflects both strategic caution and support for diplomatic solutions, as it balances regional stability with its economic and diaspora interests.
Our Thoughts
India’s measured response to the US-Iran ceasefire highlights its pragmatic foreign policy approach in times of global uncertainty. By prioritising dialogue while safeguarding its economic and citizen interests, New Delhi is positioning itself as a balanced stakeholder in West Asia. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical lifeline, and any disruption there has immediate ripple effects on India’s economy. While the ceasefire offers temporary relief, long-term stability will depend on sustained negotiations. India’s continued engagement with all parties suggests it is preparing for multiple scenarios, ensuring both strategic flexibility and national interest protection in a volatile geopolitical environment