Regional Leaders Emphasize Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean
India and its Indian Ocean neighbors have reinforced their commitment to maritime security frameworks following the sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena by a US submarine near Sri Lanka on March 4, 2026. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s role as a net security provider in the region during a session at the Raisina Dialogue focused on the future of the Indian Ocean.
Jaishankar, along with his counterparts from Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Seychelles, highlighted the importance of international laws, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in ensuring freedom of navigation and unimpeded commerce. The incident has raised concerns about the potential expansion of the West Asian conflict into India’s strategic backyard.
The Iranian frigate IRIS Dena was departing after participating in an International Fleet Review hosted by India when it was sunk. In response, two more Iranian warships have docked in Sri Lanka and India, with their crews receiving onshore accommodation. Jaishankar revealed that India had granted permission for the Iranian vessel IRIS Lavan to dock in Kochi on March 4, following a request due to technical difficulties.
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and other regional leaders have stressed the need for adherence to international laws, with Herath noting the pressures faced by Sri Lanka not to repatriate the crew of the sunken warship. The emphasis on regional cooperation frameworks aims to uphold maritime security and international law compliance.
As external powers such as the US and China maintain military presences in the Indian Ocean, Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to being a net security provider, while acknowledging the complex realities of the region. The situation underscores the importance of safeguarding the interests of Indian seafarers and nationals in West Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 8, 2026
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