Amid the Iran-Israel-US conflict, Iran has allowed Indian tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, even as vessels linked to the United States, Israel and Europe face restrictions.
In a major diplomatic win for New Delhi, Iran on Thursday allowed India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after talks between External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi amid the ongoing Iran–Israel–US war. At least two Indian tankers - MT Pushpak oil tanker and MT Parimal oil tanker - are said to be passing safely through the Strait of Hormuz, while ships linked to the United States, Europe and Israel are still facing restrictions, sources told Times Now
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil routes. More than 20 million barrels of crude oil pass through the narrow channel between Iran and Oman every day.
This accounts for about one-fifth of the world’s total oil consumption and nearly a quarter of all oil transported by sea. A large share of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments also moves through this passage.
Even a short disruption in this route can quickly affect global markets, supply chains and fuel prices around the world.
Earlier, Iran had stated that the Strait of Hormuz closure applies only to vessels from the US, Israel, Europe, and their Western allies, which implied exceptions for non-Western countries like India, providing potential clearance for Indian-flagged or India-bound ships.
This policy was clarified around March 5-6, 2026, amid the ongoing conflict, with some reports noting that India-bound tankers should be able to transit freely in theory.
First India-Bound Crude Vessel Clears Hormuz Since Iran–US War Began
India has received its first crude oil shipment through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel disrupted maritime traffic in the region. According to a report by the Hindustan Times, a Shenlong Suezmax oil tanker carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia has arrived at Mumbai Port, becoming the first India-bound vessel to safely pass through the strategic waterway since the war began.
The tanker is registered in Liberia and is captained by an Indian. It loaded crude oil at Ras Tanura oil terminal on March 1 and began its journey two days later.
Maritime tracking firms Lloyd’s List Intelligence and TankerTrackers reported that the vessel’s last known signal was from inside the Strait of Hormuz on March 8.
Tanker Went 'Dark' While Crossing Risk Zone
After entering the strait, the tanker briefly went “dark”, meaning it switched off its automatic identification system (AIS) and tracking transponders. Ships sometimes do this to avoid detection while sailing through dangerous areas, a person familiar with the matter told the newspaper.
The vessel later reappeared on tracking systems on March 9 after clearing the risky stretch.
Port officials said the tanker reached Mumbai at 1 pm on Wednesday and was berthed at 6:06 pm.
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed sharply since Iran warned it could block oil shipments in response to attacks by the United States and Israel. The narrow channel carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil, making it one of the most critical energy routes globally.
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