Iranian Navy Guided Indian LPG Tanker Through Strait Of Hormuz
Tehran : Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East involving the US and Israel, who are pitted against Iran, the Iranian Navy last week guided an Indian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker through the Strait of Hormuz along a pre-approved route. The officer, who spoke to Bloomberg on the condition of anonymity as the crew were not authorised to speak publicly, said the tanker was one of two Indian ships allowed to make the sensitive crossing.
The development comes as tensions in the region have disrupted global shipping routes and heightened risks for energy transportation through one of the world’s most critical chokepoints.
During the transit, the vessel remained in radio contact with the Iranian Navy, which collected detailed information including the ship’s flag, origin, destination and crew nationality, the report added.
It seems that Iran is allowing select vessels to transit Hormuz after verification which takes place during the ships’ transit inside Iranian waters, said Martin Kelly, head of advisory at EOS Risk Group. “While ships are being allowed to transit, it is mostly only to the benefit of Iran. The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments, making it a vital artery for energy supplies.
There have also been reports of naval mines in the area, further increasing risks for commercial vessels. According to the officer, the Indian tanker had been anchored in the Persian Gulf for about ten days before receiving clearance to transit on the night of March 13.
