09 March,2026 03:35 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday said that Iran had expressed gratitude to India. File Pic
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday said that Iran had expressed gratitude to India for allowing its naval vessel IRIS Lavan to dock at the port of Kochi in Kerala, reported the IANS.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar described the move as a "humane gesture" taken by India amid ongoing tensions in West Asia.
Jaishankar said maintaining high-level contact with Iranian leaders has been difficult due to the current regional situation. However, diplomatic engagement between the two countries continues through available channels.
He informed the House that he had spoken with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on February 20 and March 5, 2026, and added that such conversations would continue, according to the IANS.
The minister explained that the Iranian naval vessel had requested permission to dock in India after experiencing a technical malfunction while operating in the region.
Iran had earlier sought approval on February 20 for three ships to dock at Indian ports. After considering the request, the Indian government granted permission on March 1, and IRIS Lavan docked at Kochi on March 4.
The ship's crew is currently staying at facilities of the Indian Navy.
The docking took place around the time when another Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Dena, reportedly sank near Sri Lanka.
Jaishankar also addressed concerns about India's energy security, noting that the West Asia region remains an important supplier of oil and gas for the country.
He said the government is handling the situation while keeping the interests of Indian consumers as the "overriding priority."
The minister outlined three key principles guiding India's approach:
- Support for peace, dialogue and diplomacy
- Ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian citizens in the region
- Protecting India's national interests, including energy security and trade
Meanwhile, J. P. Nadda, Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha, criticised Opposition parties for their behaviour during the discussion.
He accused them of creating disruption rather than engaging in debate and claimed that they had similarly walked out during earlier discussions on issues such as the Union Budget 2026-27, electoral reforms and other national matters, the news agency reported.
(with IANS inputs)
