The government of India has condemned a drone strike on an energy facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, which left three Indian nationals injured, calling for an immediate end to attacks on civilian infrastructure and unhindered access to the Strait of Hormuz.
The condemnation was issued on Tuesday by India’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, following the incident that occurred on Monday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
“We call for immediate cessation of these hostilities and the targeting of civilian infrastructure and innocent civilians,” Mr Jaiswal said.
Mr Jaiswal emphasised the need to maintain open global energy routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for oil shipments.
“We also call for free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the Strait of Hormuz in keeping with international law,” he added.
India relies heavily on oil imports, with nearly half of its crude supplies typically passing through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption a major economic concern.
Blame and denial
Authorities in the UAE blamed Iran for the drone strike, alleging responsibility for the attack on the energy installation.
However, Iranian state media denied any planned involvement.
“Iran had no pre-planned programme” to attack oil facilities in the UAE, according to state television.
Energy vulnerability concerns
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, faces heightened vulnerability due to its reliance on foreign energy and relatively limited domestic reserves.
Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger sharp increases in oil prices, significantly impacting India’s economy.
In response to supply uncertainties, India has been diversifying its energy sources, strengthening ties with alternative suppliers and reviving older partnerships.
A major fallback option has been increased imports of Russian crude, despite previous efforts to reduce dependence amid pressure from Western sanctions and tariffs.
Mr Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s support for peaceful conflict resolution, stressing the importance of stability in the region.
“India stands ready to support all efforts for a peaceful resolution of issues,” he said.
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