Iran has permitted two Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vessels to cross the strategic Strait of Hormuz, offering relief to India’s energy supply concerns amid the ongoing Iran-US tensions. The development is expected to ease fears of a cooking gas shortage in India as shipments resume through the crucial maritime route. The move comes as the Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz transit gains attention during the regional conflict.
Officials familiar with the matter confirmed that the two LPG carriers were granted permission to sail through the strait. The ships are now moving through one of the world’s most critical oil and gas shipping routes, which handles a significant share of global energy trade.
Diplomatic engagement between India and Iran preceded the decision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, their first since the start of the Iran-US conflict.
During the discussion, Modi emphasised the safety and security of Indian citizens in the region and highlighted the need for uninterrupted energy and goods supply to India. The Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz movement was part of the broader conversation about maintaining stable trade routes during the conflict.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to coordinate efforts regarding maritime safety and the transit of Indian vessels.
Earlier in the day, Iranian ambassador Mohammad Fathali suggested that Indian ships would likely receive safe passage through the waterway. He pointed to the long-standing friendly relations between India and Iran and said both countries share common strategic interests.
Fathali also noted that India had extended support to Iran in various areas following the recent conflict developments. He indicated that positive developments regarding the Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz transit were expected within hours.
Officials said India remains in contact with Tehran to ensure safe passage for nearly two dozen Indian-flagged vessels currently waiting west of the Strait of Hormuz.
In another related development, a crude oil tanker carrying Saudi Arabian oil is expected to arrive in India on Saturday after successfully crossing the strait.
The Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz route remains vital for India’s energy security, as nearly half of the country’s oil imports pass through the narrow waterway.
FAQs
Q: Why did Iran allow Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz passage?
A: Iran allowed the ships to transit following diplomatic engagement with India and due to the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.
Q: How important is the Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz route for India?
A: The route is crucial because nearly 50 percent of India’s oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making it a key energy corridor.
Q: Are more Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz crossings expected?
A: Yes, officials say around two dozen Indian-flagged vessels are currently waiting west of the strait and discussions are ongoing for their safe passage.
Q: Could tensions affect Indian LPG carriers Strait of Hormuz movement?
A: Continued conflict in the region could pose risks, but India is maintaining diplomatic communication to ensure safe shipping operations.
