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New Delhi: The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi on November 3 thanked the Government of India, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force for rescuing 20 Iranian crew members from the hijacked fishing vessel Azini in the Arabian Sea. The embassy praised the Indian Armed Forces for their professionalism, courage and coordination during the successful operation.
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In a statement shared on social media, the embassy said that the mission reflected India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and saving lives beyond its borders. It described the operation as a demonstration of the friendship, solidarity and cooperation between India and Iran.
The rescue operation concluded on November 2 after more than 48 hours, over 3,000 km from Mumbai. The vessel had been hijacked by armed Somali pirates off the northeastern coast of Somalia, raising concerns that it could be used as a “mother ship” to support further attacks on commercial shipping.
The Indian Navy deployed a warship and maritime reconnaissance aircraft to locate and track the vessel. Marine Commandos subsequently secured the fishing boat with support from an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft, enabling the safe release of all 20 crew members. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that there are no casualties or injuries.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Navy and acknowledged the Air Force’s support, describing the mission as evidence of India’s operational readiness and ability to respond to maritime threats far from its coastline. Iran’s response added a diplomatic dimension to the operation, reinforcing bilateral goodwill alongside India’s wider commitment to maritime security across the Indian Ocean Region.
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