Amid the ongoing tensions linked to the Iran-US conflict, two LPG carriers from the UAE and one crude oil tanker from Saudi Arabia are on their way to India to help maintain energy supplies. At the same time, Dinesh Tripathi cancelled his planned visit to Australia and New Zealand due to the growing crisis in the Persian Gulf and its impact on shipping routes.

The Indian-flagged vessels MV Jag Vasant and MV Pine Gas departed from UAE ports at 6 am IST on Monday. They sailed just five nautical miles apart after receiving clearance from Iran to pass through the sensitive Strait of Hormuz.

Safe Passage Through Strategic Waterway

According to the shipping ministry, the two LPG carriers, carrying 92,612.59 metric tonnes of fuel, successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday evening.

Both ships have Indian crew members on board. Jag Vasant has 33 seafarers, while Pine Gas carries 27. The Jag Vasant is expected to arrive at Kandla port on March 26. Meanwhile, Pine Gas is likely to reach New Mangalore on March 28.

Naval Escort to Ensure Safety

As the ships move through the Gulf of Oman, Indian Navy warships will escort them for 24 hours before they proceed toward India’s western ports.

In addition, a crude oil tanker named MT Kallista is currently loading oil at Yanbu port in Saudi Arabia. It is scheduled to leave on Tuesday and will travel to Paradip port in India via Jeddah.

The Panama-flagged vessel will also receive protection from Indian Navy ships while passing through the Gulf of Aden, in coordination with the petroleum ministry.

Crews Under Stress Amid Ongoing Attacks

Due to continuous missile and drone activity across the region, Indian crew members working on tankers in the conflict zone are facing high stress levels. However, the Indian Navy and ship operators are maintaining regular communication with them to support morale.

Visit Cancelled Due to Security Concerns

The worsening situation in the Gulf and its possible effect on India’s energy security led Admiral Dinesh Tripathi to cancel his official visit scheduled from March 19 to 23.

No Payment to Iran, Confusion Over Reports

India has not paid any money to Iran for allowing its LPG ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is not permitting Indian naval vessels to escort Indian-flagged ships in the strait.

The Iranian embassy in India has denied reports that Tehran is demanding $2 million per vessel for passage through the strategic route.

India Strengthens Naval Deployment

The government led by Narendra Modi has instructed the Indian Navy to deploy advanced Kolkata-class destroyers in the Gulf of Oman and Gulf of Aden to safeguard Indian vessels.

Officials are also staying in constant touch with captains of Indian ships, assuring them that naval assistance is readily available if needed.