New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar announced on Monday that Iran has expressed its appreciation to India for what he termed a “humane gesture” following India’s decision to permit the Iranian warship IRIS Lavan to dock at Kochi port amidst the escalating tensions in West Asia.

In his address to the Rajya Sabha regarding the evolving scenario in the West Asia conflict, EAM Jaishankar noted the complexities of maintaining high-level communication with Iran during these challenging times, although diplomatic dialogues persist through available channels.

“While there have been efforts, establishing contacts with Iran at the leadership level is understandably difficult at the moment. Nonetheless, I have had discussions with Foreign Minister Araghchi on February 20, 2026, and March 5, 2026. We will strive to sustain these high-level talks in the forthcoming days,” the External Affairs Minister stated.

He elaborated on the Iranian naval ship currently docked in Kochi, clarifying the situation that led to India granting entry to the vessel.

This development coincided with the sinking incident of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka. Simultaneously, another Iranian naval ship had approached India for assistance after facing technical difficulties in the area.

The government revealed that the Iranian warship IRIS Lavan had reported a technical issue and sought urgent permission to dock from Indian authorities. After thorough consideration, the Centre agreed to Tehran’s request on March 1, allowing the vessel to dock at Kochi port in Kerala.

“The Iranian side requested docking permissions for three ships in the region on February 20, 2026, which was granted on March 1, 2026. The IRIS Lavan actually docked on March 4, 2026, in Kochi. The crew is currently utilizing Indian Naval facilities. We believe this was the appropriate course of action. The Iranian Foreign Minister has conveyed his country’s gratitude for this humane act,” EAM Jaishankar informed the House.

During his statement, the minister also addressed concerns regarding India’s energy security in light of the ongoing instability in West Asia, a vital supplier of oil and gas to India.

EAM Jaishankar emphasized that while navigating the situation, the government has prioritized the interests of Indian consumers as the “overriding priority”.

He concluded by outlining three fundamental principles guiding India’s response to the crisis in the region.

“Firstly, India advocates for peace and encourages a return to dialogue and diplomacy. We promote de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians,” he remarked.

“Secondly, the welfare and security of the Indian community in the region are paramount. We will continue to collaborate with the governments in the region toward this goal,” the minister added.

“Lastly, our national interests, including energy security and trade routes, remain a top priority,” EAM Jaishankar concluded his address in the Rajya Sabha.

Afterward, the Leader of the House J.P. Nadda criticized the Opposition for their behavior during EAM Jaishankar's speech. He claimed that their focus is not on national matters or constructive debate but on “creating chaos.”

“Their priority is never dialogue; instead, they engage in rowdiness,” he commented. He also referenced similar disruptions from previous Parliament sessions, particularly around electoral reforms in December 2025 and discussions on the space program, when the Opposition staged walkouts.

Nadda pointed out that the Opposition departed during debates on Operation Sindoor, the Pahalgam terror incident, and the Waqf Bill.

He noted that the Opposition walked out while Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was addressing the Union Budget for 2026-2027.

“They lack a genuine interest in national issues, demonstrate no concern for Atmanirbhar Bharat, and show little commitment to nation-building; their focus is entirely on political maneuvering,” he concluded.