NSA Ajit Doval speaks to Iran counterpart amid attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Mohsin Rezaei, following attacks on two merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Two vessels, the Nicaragua-flagged MT Petro Dolphin and the Marshall Islands-flagged MT Valthera, carrying 23 Indian crew members, were targeted.
• Two Indian sailors from the MT Petro Dolphin are missing after it was struck by a drone, while 10 others (9 Indian, 1 Bangladeshi) were rescued.
• All 11 Indian sailors on board the MT Valthera were reported safe after it was hit by a projectile and caught fire.
• India condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need for de-escalation, dialogue, and upholding freedom of navigation.

Detailed Insights:

• The attacks occurred in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
• This strait is vital for global energy supplies, with approximately 20-25% of the world's seaborne oil and 20% of liquefied natural gas (LNG) passing through it daily.
• Iran has reportedly enforced a blockade in the strait for several months and has been involved in attacks and threats against commercial vessels.
• India's Ministry of External Affairs reiterated the priority of ensuring the safety and security of Indian seafarers amidst recurring attacks on commercial shipping.
• The incident highlights the volatile security situation in the region, impacting international maritime commerce and global energy markets.
• The conversation between the NSAs focused on regional and international developments and mutual interests, though specifics on the attacks were not disclosed by Iran.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Strait of Hormuz: A narrow, strategically vital waterway between Iran and Oman, crucial for global oil and gas transit.
• Freedom of Navigation: The principle under international law, notably UNCLOS, that ships can traverse international waters without undue interference.
• Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) of Iran: Iran's primary body for national security and foreign policy, chaired by the President and overseen by the Supreme Leader.