Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, called India a “reliable and compassionate” partner. This statement came amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Diplomatic Support And Safe Passage Assurance
Fathali expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support during the geopolitical crisis. He assured safe passage for Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz. “We have a good relationship with the Indian government, and we want good preparation for Indian ships,” he stated.
Moreover, Fathali emphasized that India has long been regarded as a trusted ally. He praised India’s people-to-people connection, particularly during challenging times.
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Iranian Territorial Authority Over Strait
Fathali also reaffirmed Iran’s jurisdiction over the Strait of Hormuz. He explained the escalation in tensions, attributing it to external aggression. According to him, Iran was negotiating while the US and Israel launched attacks.
“The Strait is our territorial waters,” he asserted, emphasizing Iran’s right to control the vital waterway. He also accused the US of breaching commitments and fueling aggression against Iran.
US-Iran Tensions And Naval Blockade Threat
The US President, Donald Trump, escalated tensions by announcing a blockade on ships in and out of the Strait. “The US Navy will begin the process of blocking any ships trying to enter or leave the Strait,” he declared.
Trump further warned that any vessels paying transit tolls to Iran would face interception by the US Navy. He also issued a stark threat to Iran, stating that any Iranian forces attacking peaceful vessels would face immediate retaliation.
Key Maritime Movements Amid Rising Tensions
As the situation worsens, Indian-flagged vessels continue to navigate the Strait. The LPG tanker Jag Vikram, carrying 24 Indian crew members, successfully passed through the Strait on April 11, 2026.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the development, emphasizing the successful operation of the ninth Indian ship through the waterway.
Meanwhile, India continues to engage directly with Tehran to facilitate the safe passage of its ships, though no formal agreement is in place.
The Potential Impact of the US Blockade
The US blockade, officially set to begin on April 13, could drastically impact shipping in the world’s most crucial energy corridor. The move threatens further instability in the region.
As tensions rise, the fate of vessels transiting the Strait remains uncertain, with military actions potentially jeopardizing international trade routes.
