Iran Unblocks Strait for Two Indian-Flagged Gas Tankers
Iran has granted permission for two Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas carriers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, marking a rare exception to its blockade. The ships, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, are owned by state-run Shipping Corp of India. According to sources with direct knowledge, Shivalik crossed under escort from the Indian Navy, while Nanda Devi is expected to clear in the next few hours.
The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian about transit issues. India has been struggling with its worst gas crisis in decades and has sought exemptions for its vessels. The country has also given safe harbour to 183 Iranian sailors from a vessel that docked after the war broke out.
A separate crude tanker, the Liberia-flagged Smyrni, is expected to arrive in India on Saturday carrying Saudi Arabian oil. This comes as India's foreign ministry, navy, Shipping Corp, and Hindustan Petroleum Corp did not respond to Reuters emails seeking comment.