Iran may allow Indian flagged tankers through Strait of Hormuz as first crude carrier reaches Mumbai
India may secure limited passage for its tankers through the Strait of Hormuz after diplomatic contacts with Tehran, according to an Indian government source. Maritime security risks continue to disrupt shipping in the Gulf.
Tanker traffic through the strategic chokepoint remains under pressure after war broke out between Iran, the United States and Israel in late February.
Diplomatic contacts focus on shipping safety
India’s foreign ministry confirmed that the foreign ministers of both countries spoke three times in recent days. The latest discussion focused on maritime safety and the protection of India’s energy supply routes.
Officials did not confirm any formal agreement. Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said it would be premature to provide further details.
An Indian source familiar with the talks said Tehran indicated that Indian flagged tankers could transit the Strait of Hormuz. An Iranian source outside the country rejected that claim. The statement highlights uncertainty inside Iran’s decision making structure.
First crude tanker reaches India since conflict began
One crude carrier has already completed the voyage despite the rising security risks.
The Suezmax tanker Shenlong arrived in Mumbai carrying Saudi crude after sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping data shows the Liberia flagged vessel is the first tanker to reach India from the Middle East since the conflict began.
Industry sources said state owned refiner Bharat Petroleum Corporation purchased the cargo.
Two additional foreign flagged tankers that are believed to be heading toward India have also crossed the Strait.
Indian vessels operating near the Strait
India said 28 Indian flagged vessels operate on both sides of the Strait of Hormuz. These ships carry 778 Indian seafarers.
Authorities are coordinating with ship managers, recruitment agencies and Indian diplomatic missions in the region. Officials aim to monitor the security situation and support crews.
The Strait remains critical for India’s energy supply. About 40 percent of India’s crude oil imports normally move through the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf with global shipping routes.
Attacks on merchant shipping intensify
The security situation in the Gulf remains volatile. Iran has attacked at least 16 vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters since the conflict began in late February.
India condemned the targeting of commercial shipping after attackers struck a Thai vessel bound for the western Indian port of Kandla while it transited the Strait.
The growing risk has forced New Delhi to explore alternative crude supply routes. Officials are considering increased purchases from Russia.
India shelters Iranian sailors after naval incidents
India has also provided refuge to 183 Iranian sailors since hostilities began.
Three Iranian ships that participated in a naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal later docked in India. A US submarine later sank one of the vessels in international waters. Another ship later sought assistance in Sri Lanka.
