India, March 22 -- Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has said that ensuring the safety of vessels and mariners remains the top priority amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to media, Sonowal described the regional situation as "volatile", stating that vessels can only be routed through the Strait when conditions are deemed fully secure. "We cannot risk the vessels and lives of the mariners. We can bring in vessels only when we are absolutely sure of safety," he said.

The minister revealed that at least 22 vessels are currently stuck near the Strait due to security concerns. He noted that India recently managed to bring in two ...