India is preparing to resume sending oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as it looks to secure critical energy supplies from the Middle East amid the ongoing Iran conflict and global oil disruptions.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, plans have already been finalised and vessels may begin attempting the passage once the government grants final approval. The move would mark India’s first major effort to restart energy shipments through the strategically vital waterway since tensions escalated earlier this year.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes, handling nearly 20 percent of global oil shipments. However, shipping activity through the region has been severely disrupted since the conflict began, creating supply uncertainties and triggering major price volatility for energy-importing nations such as India.
State-owned Shipping Corporation of India is reportedly prepared to restart operations in the Persian Gulf after receiving security clearance from the Indian Navy and commercial approval from domestic refiners.
It remains unclear whether Iran or the United States — both maintaining military presence and operational restrictions around the strait — have formally approved India’s proposed transit plans. Analysts say cooperation from both sides will be essential to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels.
India has intensified diplomatic engagement amid the crisis. External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar recently met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New Delhi during the BRICS summit discussions.
Despite increasing purchases from Russia and alternative suppliers, India remains heavily dependent on Middle Eastern crude because of shorter delivery times and comparatively lower transportation costs. Officials believe switching entirely to distant suppliers could further increase fuel prices and strain the economy.
To support maritime security, the Indian Navy has reportedly increased its presence in the region by deploying additional warships and boosting aerial surveillance operations. Naval escorts are currently assisting Indian-flagged vessels and ships carrying cargo destined for India once they exit the high-risk zone.
The government has also launched a marine insurance support mechanism aimed at ensuring uninterrupted coverage for Indian ships and cargo operating in conflict-prone waters, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The prolonged energy disruption is placing mounting pressure on India’s economy. Rising crude prices have increased import bills, weakened the rupee and intensified inflation concerns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already urged citizens to conserve fuel and foreign exchange as the country navigates the growing economic impact of the regional crisis.
While some oil shipments have cautiously resumed through Hormuz in recent weeks, traffic remains far below normal levels. India’s decision to prepare tanker movements signals an urgent attempt to stabilise energy supplies while balancing complex geopolitical risks in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
