New Delhi, Apr. 21: India has stepped up diplomatic engagement with Iran to secure safe passage for its vessels in the Strait of Hormuz after two Indian-flagged ships came under fire, even as disruptions in the region begin to weigh on oil movement through the critical corridor this month.

Officials indicated that shipments through Hormuz have slowed in April amid heightened tensions, prompting close monitoring by New Delhi of incoming crude cargoes and maritime traffic linked to India’s energy supplies.

The Ministry of External Affairs said it is in continuous contact with Iranian authorities following the April 18 incident.

“We remain in constant contact with Iranian authorities regarding the safety of Indian vessels. We are continuously engaging with Iran to ensure safe passage,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
He added that the government is also closely tracking the safety of Indian nationals in the region.

India formally raised the matter after two of its vessels were targeted by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard units.

Since the conflict escalated in late February, 10 Indian-flagged LPG and oil tankers have made it safely through the Strait of Hormuz. However, 14 vessels remain stranded in the region; these include crude and LPG carriers. Efforts are underway to move them out safely.-Agencies