New Delhi, May 30: Even as the Strait of Hormuz remains under effective blockade following Iran’s entry into the war on February 28, Indian vessels have continued to navigate the tense waters, ensuring critical energy supplies reach the country.

The Strait, a narrow passage between Iran and Oman, carries nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas shipments. Its disruption has rattled energy markets worldwide, pushing up fuel prices and sparking fears of economic instability across Asia. Although the April 9 ceasefire halted active fighting, maritime traffic remains heavily restricted.

Speaking to the media at an inter-ministerial briefing, Opesh Kumar Sharma, Director of Shipping at the Ministry of Ports, said vessel priority is coordinated with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of Fertilisers. “We work out priorities jointly with key ministries and through MEA coordination, we try to get the ships out,” he explained, without disclosing operational details.

Currently, 13 Indian-flagged vessels are in the Hormuz region, including crude oil tankers, LPG carriers, container ships, and bulk carriers. Ships such as Shivalik, Nanda Devi, Jag Laadki, Pine Gas, and Jag Vasant have successfully crossed the waterway since the blockade began.

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Officials also addressed concerns over public ship-tracking data, noting that while such information is widely accessible, its misuse depends on intent. “Any data in the public domain can be used either way,” Sharma said, adding that trackers have also helped authorities monitor vessel safety.

Despite the risks, India remains among the countries with the highest number of vessels transiting Hormuz, underscoring the Centre’s behind-the-scenes coordination to safeguard energy supplies and maintain maritime traffic through one of the world’s most critical oil routes.