India's Engagement in the Strait of Hormuz
India has actively been engaging with Iran and other regional stakeholders to ensure the safe passage of its merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic initiative has been fruitful, as India is among the few countries that have successfully facilitated vessel transit amid heightened regional tensions.
Global Shipping Context
- Countries like China, Russia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Greece, Turkey, and Japan have also managed successful transits.
- India, along with these nations, has engaged diplomatically with Iran for safe passage.
Iran's Position
- Iran permits non-hostile vessels from countries other than the US, Israel, and their allies.
- The strait is operational for countries engaged with Tehran, such as China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan.
Current Status of Indian Vessels
Initially, 24 India-flagged vessels were stuck; now, 16 remain, with some having successfully crossed.
- Green Asha, a mid-sized gas carrier, is currently transiting the strait carrying 20,000 tonnes of LPG.
- Seven Indian LPG tankers, mostly Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs), have crossed successfully.
- These carriers are owned by companies like MOL India, Shipping Corporation of India, Great Eastern Shipping Company, Seven Islands Shipping, and BW Global United LPG.
Significance of the Strait of Hormuz for India
- About 40% of India's crude oil imports, over 50% of its LNG imports, and 90% of its LPG imports transit through the strait.
- The strait is crucial, handling around 54% of India's LPG consumption.
Additional Vessels
- Jag Laadki and Jag Prakash, both operated by Great Eastern Shipping Company, left the region without crossing the strait.
Iran's Maritime Strategy
Iran has been regulating maritime traffic through the strait, emphasizing a responsible approach to ensure the safety of navigation while maintaining its strategic interests.
- Vessels have been navigating through Iranian waters, indicating a de facto checkpoint system by Tehran.
- Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that the strait remains open, although with precautions due to the wartime situation.
