Micah Jonah, March 9, 2026
The government of India has defended its decision to permit Iranian vessels to dock at its ports, describing the move as appropriate under the circumstances.
India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Monday that Iran had requested permission for three of its ships to dock at Indian ports, a request that was approved on March 1.
According to Jaishankar, one of the vessels docked at Kochi Port on March 4, while its crew members are currently at facilities operated by the Indian Navy.
The Minister said the government believed granting the request was “the right thing to do,” though he did not provide further details regarding the purpose of the ships’ visit.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Officials in New Delhi have not indicated whether the docking arrangement is connected to the wider regional security situation.
India maintains longstanding diplomatic, economic ties with Iran, particularly in areas such as energy and regional trade.
