Tehran: Recent reports suggested that Indian tankers Pushpak and Parimal had been allowed to transit the Strait of Hormuz safely, following talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. However, sources in Tehran have categorically denied these claims, stating: "No, it's not true."

The strategic waterway, separating Iran from Oman, handles roughly 13 million barrels of oil daily, nearly one-third of global shipments. Any disruption in the strait directly impacts oil prices, global supply chains, and energy security for countries heavily reliant on Gulf exports.

Impact on Indian shipping and energy

A Liberian-flagged tanker with Indian crew, carrying Saudi crude, recently reached Mumbai, becoming the first India-bound vessel to cross the strait since the conflict began. Despite this, Iran has reiterated that vessels must obtain approval from Tehran before entering, warning that unapproved ships could face military action.

Experts warn that this denial adds uncertainty for Indian shipping companies and highlights the risks Indian seafarers face amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Global oil markets on edge

The US-Israeli campaign against Iran has entered its 13th day, sharply reducing maritime traffic and driving crude prices up. Tehran has stated that vessels not serving US or Israeli interests can navigate safely, but the general risk remains high due to Iran’s anti-ship missile capabilities, drones, and naval mines.

This denial underscores the fragility of global energy corridors and the high stakes for India, which relies heavily on imports through the Strait of Hormuz for its oil and gas supplies.

Tehran denies any special permission for Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting earlier reports of safe passage. With escalating US-Israel strikes, maritime traffic remains risky, and energy markets continue to watch developments closely.