Meanwhile, a positive development emerged during the Iran-US-Israel war situation. Iran allowed two Indian ships to cross the Strait of Hormuz safely. Therefore, these vessels moved between Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Consequently, this development eased growing worries regarding fuel shortages inside India. Because since the war began, many ships remained stuck while maritime traffic almost stopped. Hence, successful transit by these ships will partially reduce oil shortages inside India. Importantly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Iran earlier that morning.
Iran Asserts Control Over The Strait Of Hormuz
According to the reports, Iran permitted two Indian-flagged vessels to pass the crucial route. Earlier, a Liberian-flag tanker carrying Saudi crude oil crossed Hormuz successfully. Additionally, that tanker had an Indian captain onboard. Subsequently, the vessel reached Mumbai Port two days earlier. Notably, that tanker became the first vessel reaching India safely after war disruptions.
Iran clearly stated that it controls the Strait of Hormuz. IRGC commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri delivered this warning publicly. He said any ship must obtain permission before crossing Hormuz waters. Otherwise, vessels may face military attack. Furthermore, he referenced two ships named Express Rome and Mayuri Nare. Those vessels ignored warnings while attempting passage. Consequently, they faced attacks during their movement.
Why This Development Matters For India
India ranks as the world’s third-largest oil importer. Moreover, most crude oil arrives from Middle Eastern suppliers. Importantly, shipments travel through the Strait of Hormuz route. Even before the war began on February 28, several Indian vessels remained trapped there. According to the Directorate General of Shipping, between 28 and 37 Indian-flagged ships waited nearby. Additionally, more than 1000 Indian seafarers stayed onboard those vessels.
Meanwhile, Iran imposed strict restrictions on ships from America, Israel, and Europe. However, Tehran provided relaxation to non-Western countries including India. Therefore, this decision represents a significant diplomatic achievement for New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday. Subsequently, sources confirmed that Iran permitted Indian tankers after that conversation.
