MOSCOW, April 2 (Bernama-Sputnik/RIA Novosti) — India is ready to cope with any energy crisis that may arise as a result of the situation in West Asia, as the Indian navy is escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday, reported Sputnik/RIA Novosti.
“Indians living in the Gulf countries do not need to worry amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. We are not only capable but also prepared to take every step to protect and secure our citizens. At the same time, people in the country do not need to panic. India is capable of handling any energy crisis,” Singh said, speaking at an event in the state of Kerala.
On Feb 28, the United States and Israel launched strikes on targets in Iran, including in Tehran, causing damage and civilian casualties. Iran responded by striking Israeli territory and US military facilities in the West Asia region.
The escalation around Iran has led to the de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for deliveries of oil and liquefied natural gas from the Persian Gulf countries to the global market, and has also affected the level of oil exports and production in the region, driving up prices.
— NNN-BERNAMA-SPUTNIK/RIA NOVOSTI