Srinagar, 05 March (H.S.): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over the reported sinking of an Iranian warship, saying the vessel and its crew were guests of India for a multilateral naval exercise.

This comes after a major escalation in West Asia after a US submarine torpedoed and sank an Iranian warship in international waters off the coast Sri Lanka on Wednesday. The vessel was returning from the Milan naval exercise hosted by India.

Speaking to reporters here, Abdullah said the incident has caused anxiety within the Union Territory as many residents, including students, are currently in Iran.

“It is unfortunate that an attack was carried out on the Iranian warship. They were our guests and had come here for a naval exercise. While returning, it was attacked. In some way, our country is also being dragged into this situation. What will happen in the future is beyond my jurisdiction,” he said.

The chief minister said the government is coordinating with the Centre to ensure the safety of Jammu and Kashmir residents in Iran. He added that the government is working to formulate a programme to bring them home safely. He also appealed for calm in the Union Territory amid the evolving situation.

The chief minister met with members of civil society and religious leaders in Srinagar on Wednesday to ensure peace is maintained.

“The elements trying to disturb the atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir should not be allowed to take advantage of the situation,” he said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar