Tehran: India has received a measure of reassurance amid growing tensions in West Asia after Iran indicated that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed only to ships linked to the United States, Israel, Europe and their allies. The development offers some relief for New Delhi, which depends heavily on the strategic waterway for its energy imports.
Nearly 40 per cent of India’s crude oil shipments pass through the narrow maritime corridor between Iran and Oman, making any disruption there a major concern for the country’s energy security. The strait, which spans about 33 kilometres at its narrowest point, has been effectively shut since March 1 following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
Despite the tense situation, officials say India is actively securing supplies from multiple sources to ensure uninterrupted energy availability. Government sources indicated that the country’s current reserves are stable and replenishment is continuing regularly.
Russia has also stepped forward during the crisis. Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov stated that Moscow remains willing to expand crude oil shipments to India if needed. At present, India is importing roughly one million barrels of Russian oil per day, with additional volumes under discussion.
The United States has also signalled support for maintaining global energy flows. President Donald Trump announced that the US Development Finance Corporation would offer shipping insurance at competitive rates for vessels operating in the region. According to him, this measure aims to keep international energy transport running smoothly. He also noted that the US Navy could provide protection to commercial vessels in the Middle East if circumstances demand it.
Meanwhile, India is diversifying its energy procurement strategy. Officials confirmed that the country has been engaging with several oil and gas producers around the world. Australia and Canada have offered to supply natural gas, while new energy agreements have recently been signed with the United Arab Emirates and the United States.
India currently imports about 195 million metric standard cubic metres of gas per day, with Qatar supplying nearly 60 MMSCMD. However, Qatar recently halted gas production due to security concerns, prompting India to explore alternative markets for its gas requirements.
Discussions are also underway with major international energy institutions and producers. India is in contact with the International Energy Agency and the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries as it monitors the evolving crisis.
In a move aimed at stabilising the market, eight members of the OPEC+ alliance — Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman — have announced plans to raise output starting April 1. The additional supply is expected to help offset potential disruptions caused by tensions in the Gulf.
While the geopolitical situation remains uncertain, officials say India’s diversified sourcing strategy and comfortable stock levels have placed the country in a relatively secure position for now.
