Iran Permits Indian Ships, Other ‘Friendly Nations’ Through Strait of Hormuz

In a major development amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, Iran has confirmed that Indian vessels will be allowed to transit through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, even as restrictions remain in place for its adversaries. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran has granted selective access to countries it considers “friendly,” including India, China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan. “We have permitted certain countries that we consider friendly to pass through… We allowed China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan to transit,” Araghchi said, according to Iranian State TV. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but vital maritime route between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, handles nearly 20% of global oil and LNG shipments. However, ongoing hostilities have effectively disrupted commercial traffic, with shipping activity sharply declining and global oil and gas prices surging. Iran has made it clear that vessels linked to its adversaries—including the United States and Israel—will not be allowed passage. “We are in a state of war… there is no reason to allow the ships of our enemies and their allies to pass through,” Araghchi said. Iran has also mandated that all vessels seek prior clearance from its authorities, with enforcement led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Ships failing to comply risk being targeted For India, the development is critical. West Asia remains a key supplier of crude oil, LNG, and fertiliser inputs. While India has been granted passage, disruptions in the Strait have already impacted supply chains. Several Indian vessels have faced delays, with only limited movement possible under strict conditions New Delhi has stepped up diplomatic engagement in recent weeks, focusing on: Ensuring uninterrupted energy imports De-escalating tensions in the region Safeguarding Indian seafarers and shipping routes Officials warn that prolonged instability could have serious implications for fuel availability and fertiliser security. The situation has triggered widespread global concern, with Donald Trump warning Iran of “severe consequences” if the Strait is not fully reopened. The disruption has already sent shockwaves through global energy markets, with shipping risks, insurance costs, and geopolitical uncertainty driving volatility. Although Iran insists the Strait remains open for select countries like India, the reality on the ground reflects a tightly controlled and high-risk transit environment. With tensions continuing and no clear resolution in sight, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of a deepening geopolitical and energy crisis.