New Delhi (IANS): The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Thursday that six Indian vessels carrying critical energy supplies, including LPG and LNG, have safely transitioned through the Strait of Hormuz. New Delhi remains in active negotiations with Iran and other regional partners to ensure the unimpeded transit of Indian-flagged ships amid escalating regional conflict.
Diplomatic Efforts for Safe Transit
During a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed concerns regarding 18 Indian-flagged vessels currently situated in the Persian Gulf.
“We are in touch with Iran and other countries to ensure unimpeded and safe transit for our ships,” Jaiswal stated. “Through these conversations over the last several days, six Indian ships have already crossed Hormuz safely. We continue to engage with all relevant parties on this matter.”
In a move highlighting the strategic importance of the route, Jaiswal also confirmed that India’s Foreign Secretary will attend a high-level meeting on the Strait of Hormuz hosted by the UK on Thursday evening.
Clarification on “Transit Tolls”
The MEA categorically dismissed reports suggesting that India is paying a “toll” to Iran for passage through the strait.
“We have clarified this issue earlier as well. There has been no discussion of this nature between us and Iran,” Jaiswal clarified, responding to rumors of a financial arrangement for maritime access.
Iran’s “Friendly Nation” Exemption
Last month, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced that while access remains restricted for many, Iran would not impose limitations on five “friendly” nations: India, China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan.
“There is no reason to allow the enemy to pass through the Strait,” Araghchi told Iranian state television. “However, we have permitted certain countries that we consider friendly to transit.”
High-Level Intervention
The maritime safety of the region has been a priority for the Indian leadership. On March 21, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss West Asian security. During the call, PM Modi:
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Condemned attacks on critical regional infrastructure.
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Asserted the significance of safeguarding freedom of navigation.
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Reiterated India’s position that regional tensions must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
As the conflict in West Asia continues to impact global energy markets, India’s diplomatic focus remains on keeping shipping lanes open and secure to protect its energy security.
