India summons Pakistani diplomat over Arabian Sea naval collision

India has formally accused Pakistan of breaching a longstanding bilateral naval accord after a collision involving warships from the two countries in the Arabian Sea on Tuesday. The Indian Ministry of Defence said that a Pakistani naval vessel struck an Indian frigate during a routine patrol, causing minor damage but no injuries. India’s statement emphasized that the incident occurred despite both sides having previously agreed to maintain safe distances and to communicate movements to avoid misunderstandings in shared waters.

Pakistan’s navy acknowledged the contact but described it as an “unfortunate accident” and asserted that it had complied with the terms of the 1972 India‑Pakistan naval agreement, which calls for mutual notification of exercises and the avoidance of hazardous maneuvers. Indian officials, however, contended that Pakistan failed to issue the required prior notice and ignored established protocols, thereby jeopardising regional maritime security. Both governments have indicated that they will seek clarification through diplomatic channels, while urging their respective forces to adhere strictly to existing agreements to prevent further incidents.