Iran allows Indian oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz
Iran on Thursday permitted Indian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz following discussions between External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The talks focused on safeguarding India’s energy supply as tensions escalate across West Asia.
Addressing the issue, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that senior-level contacts between the two countries had taken place in recent days.
“EAM and FM of Iran have had three conversations in the last few days. The last one discussed issues pertaining to safety of shipping and India’s energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything,” Jaiswal said during a weekly media briefing. The objective of the diplomatic outreach was to keep the sea route open for Indian ships so that shipments of crude oil and liquefied natural gas continue without major interruptions. India remains heavily dependent on energy imports, making stability in Gulf shipping lanes crucial for the country’s energy security.
While Iranian authorities have reportedly allowed Indian tankers to continue using the route, vessels linked to the United States, Europe, and Israel are currently facing restrictions in the waterway.
The EAM also held discussions with Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on maintaining stability in the region and ensuring the security of key maritime trade routes.
