India shrugs off Trump's 'hellhole' repost amid diplomatic ties
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has declined to offer a detailed response to reports that U.S. President Donald Trump amplified a post describing India and other countries as “hellholes.”
“We have seen some reports, that is where I leave it,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in New Delhi on Thursday when asked about the matter.
The comment came after Trump reportedly reposted criticism of birthright citizenship in the United States that used the term to refer to India, China and others. A U.S. embassy spokesperson later sought to ease concerns, stressing the strength of U.S.-India relations and noting that Trump had praised India’s leadership.
Jaiswal also addressed maritime security concerns linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. He said Indian nationals were aboard two foreign-owned vessels recently fired upon, but confirmed they were safe and in contact with authorities.
India said 10 Indian vessels had safely exited the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks, while 14 remained in the Persian Gulf. Jaiswal reiterated New Delhi’s call for “unimpeded access and transit rights for commercial shipping” through the key waterway.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
