Signs of normalcy are gradually returning to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, as 11 India-bound vessels have successfully transited the waterway since the signing of the Iran-US memorandum of understanding (MoU) earlier this month. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the development on Tuesday, amid ongoing efforts to stabilise shipping traffic in the Gulf region following weeks of uncertainty triggered by the US-Iran conflict.
Details of Vessel Movements and Cargo
Briefing reporters, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal disclosed that since the MoU on June 17, eleven India-bound vessels had successfully navigated through the Strait of Hormuz. These included three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers, each carrying approximately 285,000 metric tonnes of crude oil; one foreign-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carrier; one foreign-flagged crude oil tanker; and six foreign-flagged bulk carriers transporting fertiliser cargo destined for India.
Jaiswal noted that maritime traffic had resumed in both directions. “As of today, we have 10 Indian-flagged vessels still in the Persian Gulf region—these are the ones that were stranded when the conflict began—but in addition to these 10, we have two Indian ships that have crossed from this side into the Persian Gulf, which means that traffic is moving back and forth,” he said.
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and Oman, handles nearly a fifth of global oil trade and is regarded as one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes. Any disruption in the narrow waterway has immediate implications for energy markets and countries heavily dependent on Gulf oil supplies, including India. The recent conflict had raised fears over the safety of commercial navigation, leading to a halt in traffic and stranding several vessels.
Diplomatic Efforts and Outlook
The June 17 Iran-US MoU, along with diplomatic efforts involving Qatar and Pakistan, has helped ease tensions and facilitate the movement of commercial vessels. Jaiswal expressed hope that the remaining Indian vessels stranded in the region would soon be able to proceed. “It is our expectation and hope that the remaining Indian-flagged vessels will also be able to cross the Strait of Hormuz soon,” he added.
The latest figures released by the MEA indicate that India’s energy supplies and fertiliser imports have begun moving through the corridor, offering relief to policymakers and markets alike. With shipping activity gradually picking up, New Delhi is closely monitoring the situation and remains hopeful for a full resumption of normal traffic.
