New Delhi: Two liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers bound for India have successfully crossed the strategic Strait of Hormuz under the protection of the Indian Navy, marking the first such passage in nearly two weeks amid rising tensions in West Asia.
The ships, identified as the Shivalik and Nanda Devi, were escorted by a naval warship equipped with active air defence systems while navigating the sensitive maritime corridor between Iran and Oman.
Both vessels are operated by Shipping Corporation of India and together carry approximately 85,000 metric tonnes of LPG destined for Indian ports. Officials said the tankers are expected to reach India by Monday night, depending on sea conditions and sailing speed.
Diplomatic talks helped secure passage
Sources indicated that the safe movement of the vessels followed diplomatic engagements between India and Iran. Recently, Narendra Modi spoke with Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating conflict in the region.
During the conversation, Modi highlighted concerns about civilian casualties and stressed the importance of maintaining secure trade routes for energy supplies and the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
In addition, S. Jaishankar has held several rounds of discussions with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi since the conflict intensified.
Strategic monitoring by the Navy
Officials said the naval escort operation is being monitored closely using shipborne radar systems along with surveillance from satellites, maritime patrol aircraft and drones. Real-time updates are also being tracked from operational centres in New Delhi and along India’s western coast.
Another naval or coast guard vessel may join the convoy mid-sea to guide the tankers safely to Indian ports, sources added.
The Indian Navy maintains a continuous presence in the region through anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden and through Operation Sankalp launched in 2019 to protect commercial shipping in the Gulf region.
Rising tensions threaten global energy routes
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes, and the ongoing conflict involving United States, Israel and Iran has raised concerns over maritime security.
Officials said more than two dozen India-flagged ships are currently positioned on either side of the strait, while nearly 23,000 Indian seafarers are working on merchant and offshore vessels across the Gulf region.
The situation continues to be closely monitored as instability in the area threatens global shipping lanes and energy supplies.
