India’s ‘Jag Ladki,’ a crude oil tanker, safely reached Gujarat’s Mundra Port after enduring a dangerous journey. The tanker, carrying vital crude oil, had previously been loaded at the UAE’s Fujairah Port. Despite a missile attack by Iran on the Fujairah Oil Terminal, the ship’s crew remained safe.
Attack and Safe Passage Amid Growing Tensions
The ‘Jag Ladki’ departed Fujairah on Sunday. On Saturday, a drone strike hit the port, igniting fires and briefly halting operations. However, the tanker continued its journey, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz and heading towards India.
‘Jag Ladki’ Marks the Third Successful Exit from the Conflict Zone
This tanker becomes the third Indian-flagged ship to navigate safely out of a conflict zone. Previously, two LPG carriers, ‘Shivalik’ and ‘Nanda Devi,’ also crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely. These ships carried a combined 92,712 tons of LPG, reaching different ports across India.
India’s Navy closely escorted these vessels, ensuring their safety amidst rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The move was crucial for India’s energy supply, as the route remains essential for global oil trade.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Blocked for US and Israeli Ships
Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz to US and Israeli vessels but assured safe passage for Indian ships. Iranian Foreign Minister, Syed Abbas Araghchi, stated that Iran would maintain the blockade for American and Israeli vessels. In return, Iran assured India of a secure route for its flagged ships, confirmed during high-level talks between India and Iran.
India Maintains Secure Maritime Presence
Currently, 22 Indian-flagged merchant ships, including six LPG carriers, are operating in the Persian Gulf. The Shipping Ministry reported that 611 Indian sailors are aboard these ships. Despite reports of Iran’s demands regarding seized tankers, India has firmly rejected such requests, maintaining its secure passage agreement.
