Iran Grants Safe Transit to Indian LPG Vessels Through Strait of Hormuz
In a significant development amid regional tensions, Iranian authorities have granted transit permission to two Indian-flagged vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. This move underscores the diplomatic and economic ties between India and Iran, even as conflict escalates in West Asia.
Details of the Indian Vessels and Maritime Operations
One of the vessels, identified as the Shivalik, was last reported to be in the Gulf of Oman, with an expected arrival at its destination by March 21, according to data from vessel traffic monitoring site marinetraffic. The Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on Friday, revealing that 24 Indian-flagged vessels with 668 Indian seafarers are currently operating in the Persian Gulf region. Additionally, 76 Indian seafarers remain on three vessels located east of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Ministry emphasized that the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is actively coordinating with ship owners, RPSL agencies, and Indian missions to ensure the safety of all Indian vessels and crew. Since activating a 24-hour control room, DG Shipping has handled over 2,425 calls and 4,441 emails, facilitating the safe repatriation of more than 223 stranded Indian seafarers.
Iranian Assurance and Diplomatic Statements
Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, confirmed Tehran's commitment to providing safe passage for vessels bound for India through the Strait of Hormuz. He cited the longstanding friendship and shared interests between the two nations, stating, "Yes. Because India and I are friends. We believe that Iran and India are friends. We have common interests; we have a common fate." Fathali highlighted the mutual responsibility, adding, "Suffering of the people of India is our suffering and vice versa. And for this reason, the government of India help us, and we should help the government of India because we have a common fate and common interest."
Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, clarified that Iran has not closed the Strait of Hormuz, but noted that ships are currently unable to pass through due to the prevailing situation in West Asia. He said, "Iran has not closed the Strait. It remains open; however, due to current conditions and circumstances, ships are unable to pass through the Hormuz. Otherwise, Iran never wanted the Strait to be closed or blocked. Some ships are still passing through." Ilahi urged world leaders to pressure US President Donald Trump to stop the war, emphasizing the global impact, including rising oil prices.
Background of the West Asia Conflict
The current round of conflict in West Asia, which began on February 28, involves fighting between Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other. The escalation followed the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes by the US and Israel. In retaliation, Iran targeted Israeli and US assets in several Gulf countries and Israel, causing disruptions in the waterway and affecting international energy markets and global economic stability.
Due to this conflict, the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit route for global energy supply, has reportedly been rendered inoperational, highlighting the geopolitical risks and the importance of diplomatic efforts to ensure maritime safety and energy security.
