New Delhi: Iran has allowed Indian-flagged merchant vessels and tankers to cross the Strait of Hormuz on a case-by-case basis, with New Delhi engaged with key stakeholders to ensure safe passage.
Iran's foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Tehran has permitted passage for 'friendly nations' including India, China, Iraq, Pakistan, and Russia.
So far, Iran has allowed four Indian-flagged LPG carriers to pass through the strait since the start of the West Asia conflict, with another 20 vessels still located to the west of the waterway.
The Indian side is keen to work out arrangements for other vessels to use the strait to pick up oil and gas supplies, drawing comfort from Araghchi's remarks that the strait is closed to vessels linked to Iran's adversaries.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, special secretary in the shipping ministry, confirmed that the 20 Indian-flagged merchant vessels with 540 Indian sailors are currently safe.
External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to be in touch with 'all concerned countries' for the safe transit of ships to meet energy requirements.
