The Centre has clarified that no discussions have taken place with Iran regarding the imposition of tolls on Indian vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting recent reports amid rising tensions in West Asia. Responding to queries, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that there has been no such engagement on the issue.
The clarification follows reports from Iranian state media claiming that a parliamentary commission had approved a proposal to levy tolls on ships transiting the strategic waterway. The reported plan included financial mechanisms such as rial-based toll systems, coordination with Oman—which shares control over the strait—and potential restrictions targeting countries like the United States and Israel, as well as those imposing sanctions on Iran.
Despite dismissing the toll-related claims, India has indicated that it remains actively engaged with regional stakeholders to ensure the safety of its maritime operations. Jaiswal said New Delhi is in continuous contact with Iran and other countries in the region to maintain secure and uninterrupted passage for Indian vessels carrying LPG, LNG, and other essential cargo.
He also noted that six Indian ships have recently crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely, underscoring ongoing coordination efforts. Additionally, the government confirmed that the United Kingdom has invited several countries, including India, for discussions on the evolving situation in the region, with India’s Foreign Secretary expected to participate.
The developments come at a time when traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical energy corridors handling a significant share of global oil and gas shipments—has dropped sharply due to the ongoing conflict. This disruption has raised concerns about global energy supply chains and price stability.
During the same briefing, Jaiswal also highlighted India’s role in United Nations peacekeeping missions, stating that around 600 Indian personnel are currently deployed with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He reiterated India’s concern over recent attacks on peacekeepers and emphasized that the safety and security of UN personnel must be ensured at all times.
