India is preparing to send oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz to secure fresh crude supplies from Middle Eastern producers despite continuing risks linked to the Iran conflict and regional shipping disruptions.
According to reports, plans are being finalized for Indian-linked vessels to resume loading operations through the strategically critical maritime corridor, which handles a significant share of global oil trade. The move comes as New Delhi seeks to safeguard energy security and maintain stable crude supplies for domestic refiners amid prolonged instability in West Asia.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has remained heavily restricted in recent months due to military tensions, security threats and tighter controls on vessel movements. Several tankers carrying crude and LPG cargoes bound for Asian markets have recently managed to transit the route, signaling limited easing in maritime activity.
Indian authorities and shipping operators have been coordinating closely with regional stakeholders to secure safe passage for energy cargoes. Earlier this year, India also held diplomatic discussions with Iran to facilitate movement of Indian-flagged tankers through the waterway as energy supply concerns intensified.
Energy analysts said India’s decision reflects the country’s continued dependence on Middle Eastern crude supplies despite efforts to diversify imports from Russia and other producers. The Strait of Hormuz remains critical for India’s oil and LPG imports, and any prolonged disruption could increase freight costs, insurance premiums and supply chain risks for refiners and consumers.