Iranian Navy guides Indian LPG vessel through Strait of Hormuz last week

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran, the Iranian Navy last week guided.

An Indian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, following diplomatic engagement by India, according to a Bloomberg report.

A senior officer onboard the vessel, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the tanker was among two Indian ships permitted to make the high-risk transit amid heightened regional tensions.

The move comes as the conflict has disrupted global shipping routes and significantly raised risks for energy transportation through one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.

During the passage, the vessel remained in constant radio contact with the Iranian Navy, which gathered detailed information such as the ship’s flag, origin, destination and crew nationality. All crew members were Indian. The tanker was then guided along a designated route, pointing to a tightly monitored transit system.

Experts suggest that Iran is allowing select vessels to pass after verification within its waters, indicating a controlled approach to maritime movement during the crisis.

The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments, making it critical to global energy supply. Since late February, the region has seen missile and drone attacks, fatalities among seafarers, and a surge in insurance costs. Reports of naval mines have further increased risks for commercial vessels.

The Indian tanker had been anchored in the Persian Gulf for around ten days before receiving clearance to transit on March 13. Prior to entry, the crew undertook emergency precautions, including preparing life rafts amid uncertainty over safe passage.

The transit was complex, with the vessel switching off its automatic identification system and experiencing GPS disruptions linked to the conflict, which prolonged the journey. Ships have recently been navigating through a narrow corridor between the Iranian islands of Larak and Qeshm, staying close to the coastline for relative safety.

After exiting into the Gulf of Oman, the tanker was met by Indian Navy vessels, which escorted it onward. It has since continued its voyage to India.

New Delhi maintains engagement

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said the safe passage of Indian-flagged gas carriers reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement with Iran, though no blanket arrangement exists. He added that dialogue remains active as India seeks to safeguard its energy supply routes.

India has also deployed naval assets to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and the North Arabian Sea, with around 22 Indian ships still stranded in the wider region amid ongoing security threats.

The episode highlights how diplomacy and selective coordination are enabling limited maritime movement even as tensions persist, keeping global energy markets and shipping security on edge.