Indian Shipowners Seek Urgent Diplomatic Intervention for Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

In a letter addressed to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the Indian National Shipowners’ Association (INSA) said the ongoing conflict between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other has effectively resulted in a “blocked-style closure” of the Strait.

According to INSA, at least 27 Indian-flagged vessels are currently positioned in the affected region, the majority in the Persian Gulf and some in the Gulf of Aden. Many of these ships are laden with crude oil or LPG cargoes destined for India. Given the heightened security risks, the safest course of action for these vessels has been to hold position.

Collectively valued at over ₹10,000 crore, the ships represent not only significant national assets but also carry Indian crew members whose safety is now a pressing concern. INSA cited international shipping reports indicating that at least three tankers have been attacked in the Gulf since February 27, 2026. One vessel owned by an INSA member reportedly narrowly escaped a missile strike that landed within a mile of the ship.

The association underscored India’s heavy reliance on energy imports routed through the Strait, noting that nearly 85% of the country’s LPG imports transit the Hormuz corridor. Given the volume involved, INSA stressed that these supplies cannot be easily substituted. Several Indian tankers are already loaded, while others remain south of the Strait awaiting clearance to lift additional cargo. Any prolonged disruption, it warned, could strain India’s limited strategic energy reserves.

INSA also pointed to conflicting field reports suggesting that certain Chinese and Iranian vessels have continued transiting the Strait even as incidents of firing from the Iranian Coast Guard have been reported. In this volatile environment, the association emphasized the need for clear assurances to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement of Indian-flagged ships.

Calling for immediate diplomatic engagement, INSA requested the minister to use official channels to communicate with authorities in Iran and Israel to guarantee safe passage for Indian vessels. Such assurances, the association said, would safeguard Indian seafarers and help maintain stable crude oil and LPG supply chains critical to the nation’s economy.      The letter further cautioned that without explicit guarantees of safe transit, Indian-flagged ships could face unprecedented surges in freight and insurance premiums, adding further cost pressures to India’s energy imports.      “We trust you will give this serious consideration and implore you to act immediately on our request,” INSA CEO Anil Devli wrote, offering to provide any additional information the government may require.

The situation continues to evolve, with maritime stakeholders closely monitoring developments in one of the world’s most strategically vital energy corridors.