The development follows Iran’s announcement that India, along with a few other countries considered “friendly”, would be permitted to move their vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing conflict, offering significant relief to India given its heavy dependence on imported energy.
In a key breakthrough, two liquefied petroleum gas tankers bound for India successfully passed through the sensitive maritime corridor. The vessels, carrying more than 90,000 tonnes of cooking gas, navigated the high-risk zone and have now moved towards the Gulf of Oman. Their movement marks a gradual resumption of energy shipments through a route that had remained severely restricted since the escalation of hostilities in the region.
The tankers maintained close proximity while transiting the strait, reflecting cautious navigation through an area that handles a substantial portion of global oil and gas trade. At the same time, several other Indian vessels, mainly transporting crude oil, remain stationed near the United Arab Emirates, awaiting clearance to proceed through the passage.
In total, around 20 Indian-flagged ships have been affected by the disruption, with some stranded in the Gulf region. Authorities and shipping operators are also utilising this window to load liquefied petroleum gas onto empty vessels in the area, in an effort to stabilise supply chains and reduce delays.
Iran’s decision to allow safe passage to selected countries was articulated by its foreign minister, who stated that ships linked to nations maintaining favourable relations with Tehran would be permitted to cross, while restrictions would continue for others. This selective easing has helped partially restore movement through one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Earlier movements by Indian ships through the strait had involved altered navigation routes, likely intended to clearly signal their identity and avoid any misinterpretation in a tense environment. These adjustments highlight the complexity and sensitivity of maritime operations during the conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz holds immense importance for India, as a large share of its oil and gas imports passes through this narrow waterway. The recent disruption had already begun to impact domestic supply, leading to shortages of cooking gas and triggering panic buying among consumers, along with operational challenges for businesses dependent on steady fuel availability.
With the gradual reopening of the route for Indian vessels, there is cautious optimism that supply conditions will stabilise in the near future. The development is expected to ease pressure on energy availability and help restore normalcy in distribution networks, although the situation continues to be closely monitored given the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
