Iran clears passage for two India-bound gas tankers through strait of Hormuz amidst tensions
Iran has allowed two Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, easing India's cooking gas crisis. The move follows diplomatic efforts between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, prioritizing Indian citizens' safety and uninterrupted energy flow
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amidst the severe crisis of cooking gas (LPG) and commercial cylinders that has been deepening in India for the past few days, a very big and relieving news has come to the fore. Following a crucial conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran has given the green signal to two Indian-flagged LPG ships to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. This move is no less than a lifeline for India, as the restaurant and hospitality sector across the country was on the verge of complete collapse due to the severe gas shortage.
PM Modi's diplomatic victory amid Iran-US war
This was the first direct conversation between the heads of state of the two countries since the war between Iran and the United States began, and it has immediately demonstrated its impact. Prime Minister Modi himself confirmed this major diplomatic discussion on social media. He stated that during his lengthy conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the tense situation in the region was discussed in depth. PM Modi expressed deep concern over the loss of civilian lives and the extensive damage to infrastructure in the war. He categorically clarified that the safety of Indian citizens and the need for uninterrupted movement of energy and goods are India's top priorities. He also strongly urged a return to the path of peace and diplomacy.
The ships were approved within hours of discussions with the Foreign Minister
In addition to the Prime Minister, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also held serious discussions on this sensitive issue with his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi. This diplomatic dialogue and long-standing friendship resulted in the passage of Indian ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz within hours. Iranian Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali described this decision as a significant testament to the deep and historic friendship between the two countries. He stated that Iran and India are true friends and share a common destiny. The Ambassador also indicated that positive discussions are ongoing to provide safe passage to approximately two dozen other Indian ships.
Commercial cylinders will be cheaper, crude oil is also arriving from Saudi Arabia
It is worth noting that due to this global crisis, the supply of commercial gas cylinders in India fell by 80%, and prices even exceeded ₹2,300. Now, with the arrival of these ships in India, the gas supply chain in the country will improve and buffer stocks will increase, which is expected to provide significant price relief. In further relief for the economy, a tanker carrying a large quantity of crude oil from Saudi Arabia has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and is scheduled to arrive in India today, Saturday. The Indian government is in constant contact with Iran to safely evacuate the 24 Indian ships currently stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz.