India's core maritime security objectives, focused on deterring conflict and coercion at sea, face significant complications due to evolving regional security dynamics.Conflicts in West Asia, particularly the Israeli war in Gaza, have spillover into the Arabian Sea, impacting freedom of navigation and posing strategic risks to India's maritime security.
The conflict has escalated, with Yemen's Houthis carrying out raids and drone attacks in support of Israeli-occupied territory, affecting vital maritime routes and supply chains. The United States and Iran have taken retaliatory actions, including seizing important cargo ships, and the heightened security situation is drawing international attention.
Deteriorating security in West Asia and its impact on navigation in the Arabian Sea pose significant strategic challenges to India's maritime security. Attacks on oil tankers in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf have caused supply rates to drop, impacting India's strategic reserves initiative and pushing major trading companies away from traditional shipping routes.
While fishing and mining activities in the Arabian Sea are currently unaffected, potential drone attacks and hijackings have raised concerns about lives, livelihoods and operational costs for the Indian Navy. The growing presence of extra-regional powers in the Indian Ocean has drawn them into global geopolitical competition, further complicating the regional balance of power.
India has traditionally provided internet security, but it is facing new challenges regarding its maritime security posture. Instability in the Indian Ocean could undermine the country's equidistant policy and affect its regional and international standing. At the same time, vigilance against hostile Chinese activities in the region becomes critical as India navigates these complex challenges in 2024.
Source: Eurasia Review
