Amir Hayat Moghadam on Hormuz Strait: The results of the elections held in America are being linked to the opposition to the ongoing war with Iran. During the elections, the resentment of American voters regarding the war and its economic cost remained in the news. At such a time, Iran has taken a big decision regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has allowed commercial ships of four countries including India to pass through this important sea route. According to Amir Hayat-Moghaddam, deputy chairman of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of the Iranian Parliament, ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar can now travel through this route. There are also interests behind this decision like purchase of medicines from India and political support from China.
Why did India get this exemption?
Aamir Hayat-Moghaddam told in an interview given to Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) on Tuesday that these four countries have been exempted for different reasons. According to him, this facility has been given to India so that Iran can import medicines through Indian ships. At the same time, the strategy behind giving way to Chinese ships is to gain political support from Beijing.
He told that Iran is collecting transit fees from Indian and Chinese ships, while Qatari ships are being allowed to pass without any fee. However, he did not provide any information on whether fees are charged from Iraqi ships or not.
How important is the Strait of Hormuz for India?
Keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for India is very important from the point of view of energy security. India imports about 90 percent of its crude oil needs. At present, about 30 percent of the oil comes via Hormuz. After the conflict started, India has tried to diversify its sources of imports by increasing purchases from Russia, America, West Africa and UAE. However, in the case of LPG, the dependence is still very high. About 90 percent of India's LPG imports pass through this sea route. Apart from this, more than 50 percent of LNG imports from Qatar and UAE are also dependent on this route. This route is also important for the import of fertilizers.
Why is this sea route important for the world?
The Strait of Hormuz, between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most important maritime trade routes. About 25% of the world's marine oil supply passes through here. Following Iran's ban on shipping, India has consistently demanded freedom of movement and navigation in international waterways. According to the European Union, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has created a system for the movement of ships, in which it is necessary for them to inform about their cargo and destination.
According to International Maritime Organization (IMO) data, from the beginning of the fighting in February to August, there were at least 70 attacks on merchant ships, killing 19 sailors. Fifteen sailors are among the 24 Indians who lost their lives in the West Asia battle. Although this relaxation is certainly a relief for India, it remains a big challenge to completely normalize maritime traffic.
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