Iran Signals Possible Safe Passage for Indian Ships Through Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

New Delhi, March 2026 : Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Friday indicated that Indian ships may soon receive safe passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt maritime traffic through the key shipping route.

Speaking about the evolving situation, Fathali emphasised the longstanding friendly relations between India and Iran and suggested that Indian vessels could benefit from this relationship. “Yes, because India is our friend. You will see it within two or three hours. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region,” the ambassador said.

He also highlighted India’s support during the recent conflict, noting that the Indian government had extended assistance to Iran in several areas. “As ambassador in India, I say that the Indian government in this situation, after the war, helped us in different fields,” he added.

Fathali’s remarks came a day after Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, stated that Tehran had allowed ships from certain countries to transit through the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing regional tensions. However, he made it clear that the access would not be extended to all nations.

Takht-Ravanchi also rejected claims that Iran had deployed mines in the waterway to block passage. “This is not true; it is closed during the war,” he said, clarifying that restrictions were linked to wartime security concerns rather than deliberate obstruction.

At the same time, the deputy minister asserted that Iran would prevent countries it considers hostile from using the critical maritime corridor. “As far as Iran is concerned, we feel that those countries that joined the aggression should not benefit from safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints, with nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas exports passing through the narrow waterway each day. Any disruption to traffic through the strait has immediate implications for global energy supplies and shipping routes.

Meanwhile, India is closely monitoring the situation in the Persian Gulf region. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said on Thursday that 28 Indian-flagged vessels are currently operating in the region and their status remains unchanged.

According to official data, 24 Indian ships carrying 677 Indian seafarers are currently located west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four vessels with 101 Indian crew members are positioned east of the strait.

Authorities, ship managers and recruitment agencies are maintaining close coordination with Indian embassies and local authorities to ensure the safety and security of Indian seafarers. Officials said all vessels and crew are being actively monitored, and arrangements are in place to provide medical assistance if required.

Advisories issued by the Directorate General of Shipping on February 28, 2026, regarding precautionary measures for Indian vessels and maritime trade operations remain in effect.

The government said it continues to closely track the evolving maritime situation in the Persian Gulf and has strengthened monitoring and preparedness measures to safeguard Indian ships, seafarers and trade routes.