External Affairs Minister cited the recent transit of two Indian-flagged tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, through the Strait as evidence that the diplomatic efforts are working.
‘Weaponisation of resources taking place to achieve goals’: EAM Jaishankar flags ‘tough world’ situation in Suriname
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said that direct diplomatic engagement with Iran is proving to be the most effective way to ensure safe passage for Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Middle East continue to threaten maritime trade.
The Union Minister, in an interview with the Financial Times UK, said New Delhi is actively engaging with Tehran to help reopen and stabilise traffic through the narrow waterway, which handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil shipments.
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The Minister’s remarks come as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, raise concerns about global oil supply chains and energy security.
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Jaishankar indicated that India’s diplomatic outreach has begun to show progress, noting that ongoing discussions with Iranian authorities “already yielding some results.”
“Certainly, from India’s perspective, it is better that we reason and we coordinate and we get a solution than we don’t,” he said, adding that conversations with Tehran remain ongoing as efforts continue to secure safe navigation for Indian vessels.
The minister suggested that India finds it more effective to “reason and coordinate” with Tehran rather than disengage.
Explaining New Delhi’s broader strategy, Jaishankar said India is pursuing a policy of sustained dialogue with regional partners to safeguard its economic and energy interests.
He cited the recent transit of two Indian-flagged tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, through the Strait as evidence that the diplomatic efforts are working.
The vessels are transporting around 92,712 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and are currently headed toward the western Indian ports of Mundra Port and Kandla Port.
Despite the successful passage of the two tankers, Jaishankar clarified that there is currently no blanket agreement guaranteeing passage for all Indian ships.
Instead, approvals are being handled individually. “The transit is being managed on a case-by-case basis,” he explained.
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