India’s Permanent Representative to the UN emphasizes the safety of Indian nationals in the Gulf amidst escalating regional tensions and humanitarian crises.
NEW YORK — During a session of the United Nations Security Council on July 28, 2026, Indian Ambassador to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, highlighted the critical importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of nearly 10 million Indians residing and working in the Gulf region. His remarks were made against the backdrop of a worrying resurgence of violence in the Middle East, particularly following recent attacks on commercial vessels transiting through the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Ambassador Harish expressed deep concern over the “resumption of attacks” and the “escalation of hostilities” in the region, calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions. He specifically condemned the attacks on vessels such as the GFS Galaxy, MT Al Bahiyah, and MT Mombasa, which occurred earlier in July. These incidents resulted in injuries to several Indian nationals, including one death and another individual who remains missing, underscoring the precarious situation faced by Indian expatriates in the Gulf.
“This is deeply concerning,” stated Ambassador Harish. “India strongly advocates a return to dialogue and diplomacy in the interests of peace, security, and stability in the region.” He called for an end to the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure, urging for the restoration of free navigation in accordance with international law.
Economic Ties and Security Concerns
India’s relationship with the Gulf region is not only significant for its expatriate community but also crucial for national economic stability. Ambassador Harish noted that India maintains a bilateral trade volume of approximately USD 180 billion with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. Additionally, foreign direct investment from the GCC totals over USD 31 billion, while remittances from Gulf nations exceed USD 52 billion, playing a vital role in the Indian economy.
“These linkages have direct implications for our economy and energy security,” Harish remarked, reflecting on the intertwined nature of India’s economic interests and the geopolitical situation in the Gulf. With the Gulf region serving as a primary source of energy imports for India, any prolonged instability could have significant repercussions on energy pricing and availability.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
While addressing the security situation in the Gulf, Ambassador Harish also drew attention to the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. He urged the international community to take immediate action to address the ongoing civilian suffering and destruction of infrastructure. “We must continue to fully support the ongoing efforts through the full implementation of UNSC Resolutions, including UNSCR 2803,” he stated.
The ambassador reiterated India’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people, highlighting that India has provided approximately USD 175 million in development assistance, which encompasses humanitarian aid and contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). He announced plans to establish a specialty hospital and a vocational training institute in Palestine as part of India’s ongoing support for the region, aiming to enhance local healthcare and educational capacity.
Commitment to Peacekeeping and Regional Stability
Turning to Lebanon, Ambassador Harish conveyed appreciation for the contributions of UN peacekeepers, known as UNIFIL, who operate under challenging conditions. He emphasized that the safety of these peacekeepers is paramount, condemning any attacks against them and asserting the necessity of respecting the sanctity of UN premises. UNIFIL has played a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in southern Lebanon since its establishment in 1978, and India has been a significant contributor to this mission.
In discussing Syria, he reaffirmed India’s support for a Syrian-led political process in alignment with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. He stressed that the principles of “sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity” of the Syrian Arab Republic must remain central to all efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. This position aligns with India’s long-standing diplomatic approach that emphasizes respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.
Ambassador Harish also addressed the situation in Yemen, reaffirming India’s commitment to the country’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while rejecting any interference in its internal affairs. “We further condemn attacks by Houthis on maritime navigation,” he stated, underscoring the shared international responsibility to ensure the protection of key maritime routes such as the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Southern Red Sea, which are vital for global trade.
Call for a Comprehensive Political Solution
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Harish articulated a broader vision for the Middle East, emphasizing the need for normalcy and lasting peace. He invoked India’s civilizational doctrine of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or “The Whole World Is One Family,” to illustrate India’s commitment to global well-being and stability. “We will continue to be guided by this approach as we seek a more secure, stable, and prosperous world,” he concluded.
India’s engagement in the Middle East reflects its strategic interests and humanitarian commitments, as the nation navigates complex regional dynamics. As tensions persist, the Indian government remains focused on safeguarding its citizens abroad while advocating for peace and stability in a region that holds substantial economic and geopolitical significance for India.
