Iran Allows India-Flagged Tankers Through Strait Of Hormuz After Jaishankar–Araghchi Talks

Iran has allowed India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz following talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, helping keep the key maritime route open for crude oil and natural gas shipments.

According to sources, Indian tankers Pushpak and Parimal have been transiting the strait safely even as vessels from the United States, Europe and Israel continue to face restrictions in the strategically important waterway.

Ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz was a key issue during Jaishankar and Araghchi’s conversation on Tuesday, March 10.

The leaders also discussed the evolving situation in West Asia during their third interaction since the outbreak of the Iran war.

In a related development, the Liberian-flagged tanker Shenlong Suezmax, carrying Saudi Arabian crude and captained by an Indian, successfully crossed the strait and berthed at Mumbai port. The vessel had loaded oil at Ras Tanura on March 1 and departed two days later.

India relies heavily on the Strait of Hormuz, with more than half of its crude oil and natural gas imports passing through the corridor.

According to the Directorate General of Shipping, at least 28 Indian-flagged vessels have been operating near the strait since hostilities began.

Seven ships, Desh Mahima, Desh Abhiman, Swarna Kamal, Vishva Prerna, Jag Viraat, Jag Lokesh and LNGC Aseem, have moved into the Arabian Sea, while Jag Lakshya has sailed toward Angola.

Tensions remain high after a Thai-flagged cargo vessel, Mayuree Naree, was reportedly attacked near the Strait of Hormuz on March 11 after leaving Khalifa Port in the UAE while heading to Kandla Port in Gujarat.

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