New delhi: India has condemned the recent attack on a Thai vessel navigating through the Strait of Hormuz, which was headed toward the port of Kandla in western India. The country's External Ministry has expressed serious concerns regarding the incident that occurred on Wednesday.

According to Thai News Agency, the Indian government has lamented the targeting of commercial ships during military conflicts in West Asia, emphasizing the increasing violence and threat to lives. The government noted that such incidents have resulted in several casualties, including Indian nationals.

Tensions have been escalating since Iran launched attacks on at least sixteen ships in the Strait following the onset of conflict between the United States and Israel in late February. The Iranian government has also issued a warning that global oil prices could soar to $200 per barrel, nearly doubling the current rates.

In response to the situation, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishangar engaged in a direct conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, earlier this week. The dialogue focused on ensuring maritime traffic security through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, among other critical subjects.

With the potential closure of this essential shipping route, India is urgently exploring alternative strategies for energy security, including boosting oil imports from Russia. As the world's third-largest oil consumer, India's reliance on this route is significant, as it accounts for 40 percent of the country's crude oil imports.

Indian sources have disclosed that Iran would permit Indian-flagged crude oil tankers to traverse the Strait of Hormuz without hindrance. However, Iranian sources situated outside the country have refuted claims of such an agreement.