Amidst the ongoing tension in West Asia and the Iran-Israel-America war, India has achieved a major diplomatic success. Iran has allowed Indian flagged oil tankers to pass safely through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. This development was done by Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. This has come to light after high-level talks between Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
These two tankers got permission
After this, at least two Indian tankers Pushpak and Parimal are safely passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This is the same sea route where the movement of many international ships has been affected due to increasing tension. This permission is also important for India because currently the ships of America, Europe and Israel passing through this area are facing serious risk of sanctions and attacks.
impact of war
The conflict that started after the attacks on Iran by America and Israel has now reached its 12th day. Due to the ever-increasing tension, maritime traffic in the region has almost come to a standstill and a sharp rise in global oil prices is being witnessed. Iran has also imposed strict restrictions on ships passing through Hormuz during this period. Tehran says only ships that are not linked to US and Israeli interests can pass safely.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?
The Strait of Hormuz is an approximately 55 kilometer wide sea route between Iran and Oman, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. This is one of the busiest and strategic sea routes in the world. Under normal circumstances, about 13 million barrels of oil passes through here every day, which is about 31 percent of the global oil supply. Obstruction in this route has a direct impact on the exports of major oil producing countries like Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Iran. A large part of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) also passes through this route. Therefore, if tensions increase here, the global market, There is an immediate impact on the supply chain and energy prices. According to defense analysts, Iran has anti-ship missiles, drones, fast attack boats and sea mines, with the help of which it can target ships in the entire Hormuz region. This is why the increasing tension on this sea route remains a matter of serious concern for global energy security.
Its meaning for India
Amidst the targeting of foreign ships by Iran, only Indian tankers getting safe passage is considered to be the result of India’s independent diplomacy. This step will help in the smooth functioning of India’s energy supply chain even in the current situation of war and blockade.