Amid rising tensions in West Asia, Iran has permitted Indian-flagged vessels to safely transit through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, even as maritime traffic through the waterway has slowed significantly following recent military strikes involving the United States and Israel.
The decision comes at a time when concerns are mounting over the security of global energy supply routes passing through the narrow strait, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. However, reports indicate that vessels linked to the United States, Europe and Israel continue to face restrictions while navigating the crucial shipping corridor.
Diplomatic Talks on Safe Passage
The safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was a key topic of discussion during a recent conversation between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. The call marked their third interaction since the conflict involving Iran escalated.
Officials said the dialogue focused on the evolving security situation in West Asia and the need to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels operating in the region.
Despite allowing Indian vessels to cross the strait, Iran has made it clear that ships must seek prior approval before entering the waterway. Alireza Tangsiri, the Rear Admiral who heads the naval wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), warned that vessels ignoring Iranian instructions could face action.
Tangsiri claimed that two ships—Express Rome and Mayuree Naree—were struck after they attempted to cross the strait without permission despite repeated warnings.
Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Global Energy Route
Iranian authorities have tightened monitoring of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after hostilities intensified with the United States and Israel. Officials suggested that ships not associated with Washington or Tel Aviv would be allowed safe passage through the corridor.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important maritime routes for energy transportation. More than 20 million barrels of crude oil pass through the strait every day, accounting for nearly one-fifth of global oil consumption and roughly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade.
A significant portion of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments also passes through the same route, making any disruption in the region capable of triggering global energy price volatility and supply chain disruptions.
India Monitoring Ships and Seafarers
Authorities in India said the situation is being closely monitored to ensure the safety of Indian vessels and crew members operating in the region.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, 28 Indian-flagged ships are currently operating in the Persian Gulf region. Of these, 24 vessels carrying 677 Indian seafarers are positioned west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four ships with 101 Indian crew members are located east of the strait.
Officials added that a 24-hour control room has been functioning since February 28 at the ministry and the Directorate General of Shipping to track developments and coordinate assistance if required. Shipping companies, recruitment agencies and Indian diplomatic missions in the region are also in constant contact to ensure the safety of seafarers.
US Plans Strategic Oil Release
Meanwhile, the United States Department of Energy has announced plans to release 172 million barrels of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve starting next week. The move is aimed at stabilising oil markets that have been rattled by supply concerns and rising geopolitical tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Energy analysts warn that continued instability in the region could further impact shipping routes, oil prices and global supply chains in the coming weeks.
