Iran to Allow Indian Officials to Meet Detained Crew Members After EAM Jaishankar’s Intervention

Following External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s discussions with Iranian and Israeli Foreign Ministers, Iran has pledged to permit Indian officials to meet with the 17 Indian crew members detained after the seizure of the Israel-linked ship MSC Aries. Jaishankar’s conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian focused on the recent drone and missile attack by Iran, which Tehran claimed was in response to Israel’s attack on the Iranian embassy on April 1.

Additionally, they discussed the situation in Gaza and the Red Sea. Abdollahian assured that Indian officials would soon have access to the detained crew members. Jaishankar also communicated India’s concerns to Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, emphasizing the importance of restraint and diplomacy in the region. While India’s neutral stance was received with some disappointment by a former Israeli diplomat, Jaishankar reiterated the need for de-escalation and responsible behavior from all parties involved.