The vessel, Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura port, docked at Mumbai port on Wednesday after receiving clearance from Iranian authorities to pass through the narrow maritime corridor, according to officials from the Mumbai Port Trust
Representational Image. Pic/AFP
A Liberian-flagged crude oil tanker captained by an Indian has safely arrived at Mumbai port after transiting through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia following recent military developments involving Iran, the United States and Israel, reported news agency ANI.
The vessel, Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura port, docked at Mumbai port on Wednesday after receiving clearance from Iranian authorities to pass through the narrow maritime corridor, according to officials from the Mumbai Port Trust, reported ANI.
Tanker sails through Strait of Hormuz with Iranian clearance
The tanker had departed from the Saudi port of Ras Tanura on March 1 and successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz before arriving in Mumbai. Authorities confirmed that the vessel was granted permission by Iran to pass through the critical waterway, which has seen heightened security concerns following recent military tensions in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital energy shipping routes, linking the Persian Gulf to global markets. The safe passage of the tanker comes at a time when maritime traffic in the area has been significantly affected by the escalating geopolitical situation.
Iran tightens restrictions on vessels in strategic waterway
Iran has recently intensified monitoring and restrictions on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian officials, vessels must obtain prior approval from Tehran before transiting through the strategic passage, reported ANI.
Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Naval Force, warned that ships ignoring Iranian directives could face military action. In a statement posted on X, he claimed that two vessels — Express Rome and Mayuree Naree — were targeted after allegedly ignoring warnings and attempting to pass through the strait without permission, reported ANI.
Iranian authorities have also indicated that ships not aligned with the interests of the United States and Israel may be allowed to transit safely through the waterway.
Global oil trade heavily dependent on Strait of Hormuz
More than 20 million barrels of crude oil pass through the Strait of Hormuz every day, making it one of the most critical chokepoints for global energy supplies. The volume represents roughly one-fifth of the world’s daily oil consumption and nearly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade.
In addition to crude oil shipments, a substantial portion of the world’s liquefied natural gas also moves through this route. Any disruption in traffic through the narrow channel separating Iran and Oman can have immediate ripple effects on global energy markets, supply chains and fuel prices worldwide, reported ANI.
India monitoring safety of seafarers and vessels
Amid the evolving maritime situation, India’s Shipping Ministry has said that the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels in the Persian Gulf region is being closely monitored, reported ANI.
According to the ministry, 28 Indian-flagged ships are currently operating in the region. Of these, 24 vessels carrying 677 Indian seafarers are located west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four vessels with 101 Indian crew members are operating east of the strait, reported ANI.
Authorities have set up a 24-hour control room in the Shipping Ministry and the Directorate General of Shipping since February 28 to monitor developments and coordinate assistance if required.
Government coordinating with embassies and maritime agencies
The ministry said Indian authorities, ship management companies and recruitment agencies are working closely with Indian embassies and local officials in the region to ensure the safety of seafarers, reported ANI.
Officials added that the government remains committed to safeguarding Indian maritime interests and ensuring the welfare of Indian crew members working aboard vessels in sensitive international waters.
(With inputs from ANI)
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