New Delhi: India on Thursday raised serious concerns at the United Nations over threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, urging immediate restoration of safe navigation and calling for restraint and de-escalation amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.Addressing the UN General Assembly debate under the Veto Initiative on the “Situation in the Middle East”, India’s Permanent Representative Ambassador Harish P said maritime security was vital to India’s energy and economic interests.He said, “An aspect of particular concern to India’s energy and economic security relates to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. India condemns the fact that commercial shipping was targeted by military attacks in this conflict.”He said India strongly condemned the attacks on civilian maritime activities and stressed that such actions are unacceptable.“We reiterate that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members or otherwise hindering freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz is unacceptable,” he said.Calling for adherence to international law, Harish urged the international community to ensure free movement of trade through the strategic waterway.“International law must be fully respected in this regard. We strongly urge that safe and unimpeded freedom of navigation and global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz be restored as soon as possible,” Harish said.Highlighting the humanitarian loss in the conflict, he said Indian civilians have also been affected.“Precious lives of Indian sailors aboard the ships have been lost during the conflict,” he said.Referring to the broader conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, Harish reiterated India’s consistent calls for restraint and diplomacy.“Since the outbreak of conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on 28 February 2026, India had expressed deep concern and urged all states to exercise restraint, avoid escalation of tensions and give priority to the safety of civilians,” he said.“We urge all states to promote dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and purposefully address the underlying issues,” he said.Reaffirming India’s position on sovereignty, Harish said, “We have also called for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.”India’s comments come amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over potential disruptions in global energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors.