India’s Diplomatic Efforts with Iran on Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, clarified that there is no overarching agreement with Iran allowing Indian-flagged ships to freely navigate the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that each ship’s passage is handled individually. Speaking recently in Brussels, Jaishankar mentioned that discussions with Iran about safe travel for Indian vessels are ongoing and producing positive outcomes.
In a discussion with the Financial Times, he pointed to the successful transit of two Indian gas tankers through the strait as a testament to effective diplomacy. “I am continually engaged in talks, and they are showing results,” Jaishankar stated. He emphasized that each shipment must be negotiated separately and denied any suggestion that Iran received something in return for these movements.
Jaishankar remarked, “India and Iran have a longstanding relationship, and this conflict is regrettable.” He acknowledged that while this recent development is promising, there is still more work underway, as India has several other vessels that need to cross the strait.
His comments come after U.S. President Donald Trump called for international allies, including China, France, and the UK, to support the U.S. in ensuring free passage through this vital waterway. The tensions have led to a spike in energy prices after Iran took measures to restrict traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
On Saturday, two Indian LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully crossed the strait, carrying about 92,712 metric tonnes of LPG. They are expected to reach Indian ports soon. Meanwhile, another 22 Indian vessels remain to the west of the Strait of Hormuz.
The successful movement of these ships followed conversations between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as well as discussions between Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Araghchi emphasized the role of BRICS, with India currently at its helm, in promoting regional security.
Jaishankar, attending a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels, expressed the importance of reasoning together and cooperating to seek solutions. He also responded to inquiries about whether European nations might adopt a similar arrangement with Iran, stating, “Each relationship has its own characteristics, making comparisons difficult.”
As oil prices remain high, with recent figures surpassing $100 a barrel, analysts predict continued increases given the ongoing situation. Iran’s new Supreme Leader has asserted that the country will maintain its stance on blocking the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, France and Italy have begun talks with Iran in search of a diplomatic resolution to ensure energy supplies.
