Despite Iran’s tightening grip on the Strait of Hormuz, India has emerged as a leading nation in successfully navigating the volatile shipping lane. Since the conflict escalated following the February 28 strikes, at least eight Indian-flagged or Indian-bound vessels have transited the chokepoint, securing vital energy supplies for the country.
Strategic Transit Amid Global Turmoil
While Iran has blocked vessels linked to “hostile nations” (specifically targeting the US and Israel), it has allowed “non-hostile vessels” to pass provided they cooperate with Tehran. India’s diplomatic engagement with Iranian authorities has been instrumental in ensuring the safe passage of its fleet.
Key Indian Vessels and Cargo: | Vessel Name | Cargo Type | Tonnage (Approx.) | Destination/Status | | :— | :— | :— | :— | | MT Shivalik | LPG | 46,350 MT | Reached Mundra (March 16) | | MT Nanda Devi | LPG | 46,360 MT | Reached Kandla (March 17) | | Jag Laadki | Crude Oil | 80,886 MT | Reached Mundra from UAE | | Pine Gas | LPG | 46,300 MT | Transited March 26-28 | | Jag Vasant | LPG | 46,300 MT | Transited March 26-28 | | Green Sanvi | LPG | 46,650 MT | Transited Friday Night | | BW Tyr & BW Elm | LPG | 94,000 MT | Safely Transited | | Jag Prakash | Gasoline | — | Safely Transited to Africa |
Navy on Standby and Diplomatic Safeguards
The Indian Navy has maintained a proactive stance, with warships on standby to provide immediate support to merchant vessels if required. This security blanket, combined with the Centre’s high-level talks with Iran, has allowed India to maintain its energy security even as 60% of other traffic in the strait now consists of Iranian-linked vessels.
Escalating Threats: The Bab el-Mandeb Factor
As the conflict enters its sixth week, the geopolitical stakes are rising. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf recently hinted at extending disruptions to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another critical maritime chokepoint.
“What share of global oil, LNG, wheat, rice, and fertiliser shipments transits the Bab el-Mandeb Strait?” Ghalibaf questioned on social media, signaling a potential escalation that could further threaten global supply chains.
Current Conflict Status
The maritime blockade remains a response to the US-Israeli strikes on February 28. While global energy markets face extreme volatility, India’s ability to move nearly 400,000 tonnes of fuel through the war zone highlights its unique diplomatic positioning in the current Middle East crisis.
