On Saturday, March 28, 2026, two merchant vessels carrying petroleum products, including LPG, for India were reported to have passed through or exited the **Strait of Hormuz**, despite disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. This development has brought some relief to India’s energy supply chain, as geopolitical uncertainties remain in the region.
Iran has claimed effective control of this strategic waterway following recent hostilities involving the US and Israel. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the strait would remain open to “friendly countries,” and he specifically named India, China, Russia and Iraq (some reports also mentioned Pakistan). Tehran has allowed the passage of select ships, while restricting the movement of others.
The Indian Navy has deployed several frontline warships near key areas of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman under **Operation Urja Suraksha** to provide security and assistance to India-bound ships after transiting the Strait of Hormuz. It is expected that more ships will pass through this route in the coming days.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday confirmed that four ships carrying LPG have safely reached India after successfully transiting the Strait of Hormuz. New Delhi is in constant touch with the concerned countries to ensure safe movement of ships and meet the country’s energy needs.
At a joint inter-ministerial briefing, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, assured that there have been no reports of any incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels or seafarers in the last 24 hours. About 20 Indian flagged ships with approximately 540 Indian crew members are currently operating safely in the Persian Gulf. Port operations across India continue without any disruption or congestion.
The Strait of Hormuz is an important global energy corridor, through which about 20% of the world’s petroleum trade passes. Although shipping has faced restrictions and delays since the conflict intensified, India’s proactive naval and diplomatic measures have helped maintain a steady, if limited, flow of essential fuel supplies. Officials are continuously monitoring the situation closely.
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