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India denies talks with US on sending warships to Strait of Hormuz

India has said it has not held any bilateral discussions with the United States regarding deploying naval vessels to secure merchant shipping in the Strait of Hormuz 

16-03-2026
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The government of India on Monday clarified that it has not engaged in direct discussions with the United States about sending naval ships to safeguard commercial vessels moving through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

The clarification came after Donald Trump urged several countries to consider deploying warships in the region to ensure the key maritime route remains open amid escalating tensions.

India’s response

Addressing queries during a press briefing, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi has not held any bilateral consultations with Washington on the proposal.

He noted that while the issue is being discussed internationally, India has not yet taken up the matter directly with the US government. Jaiswal added that New Delhi will continue to remain in touch with various countries regarding developments affecting the crucial shipping corridor.

Trump’s call for naval support

In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump called on several nations — including China, France, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom — to send naval vessels to the area.

He argued that such deployments would help keep the Strait of Hormuz “secure and accessible” for international shipping, particularly after accusations that Iran was attempting to restrict traffic through the route.

However, the countries mentioned by Trump have not yet publicly committed to sending warships to the region.

Europe seeks clarity

Meanwhile, several European governments have sought more details from Washington regarding the ongoing military developments involving Iran.

As foreign ministers from the European Union met to discuss the situation, Germany’s foreign minister Johann Wadephul said it was important for the United States and Israel to explain their military objectives and outline when they expect the operation to conclude.

He emphasised that European nations require clearer information before deciding whether to support the US proposal to strengthen maritime security in the Persian Gulf.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, handling a significant portion of global oil and energy supplies.

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