India's Foreign Minister Expresses Hope for Easing of Strait of Hormuz Transit Disruptions Amid Talks with Iran

New Delhi. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed hope that diplomatic talks with Iran will lead to a reduction in the obstruction of Indian vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with the Financial Times, he stated that he is in continuous dialogue with the Iranian side and that some positive results are beginning to emerge from these discussions.

“I am talking to them now, and those talks have yielded some results,” he said. However, he clarified that there is no single comprehensive arrangement for all Indian vessels.

On Saturday, two gas tankers flying the Indian flag successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz. This is reported to have been possible as discussions between Delhi and Tehran progressed. Nevertheless, it is reported that 22 Indian vessels are still awaiting permission to cross the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has almost completely blocked vessel traffic following the outbreak of war in the Middle East. This conflict began after the US and Israel launched a massive attack on Iran on February 28. Since then, Iran has been attacking Israel and US allies in the Gulf region, which has also affected non-military targets.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow sea passage between Iran and Oman. It connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. As approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas supply passes through this route, it is considered an extremely important energy corridor.

This route is also extremely important for India. About 40 to 50 percent of the crude oil India imports comes through this route. Furthermore, half of the liquefied natural gas and most of the liquefied petroleum gas imported into the country also pass through this route.

In recent days, due to the disruption in gas supply, a shortage of cooking gas has been observed in India. This has increased 'panic buying' among the general public and has led to a situation where some restaurants have had to temporarily close.

In recent days, some ships have managed to cross the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic efforts. According to reports, Chinese vessels have also been permitted to use the route. Turkey has also announced that one of its vessels successfully crossed the strait after discussions with Iranian officials.