New Delhi, Mar 13 Iran has indicated that Indian ships may soon receive safe passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions in West Asia, offering potential relief to hundreds of Indian seafarers currently operating in the region.
Speaking in New Delhi on Friday, Iran’s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali suggested that Indian vessels could soon resume transit through the crucial shipping corridor, highlighting the close ties between the two countries.
“Yes, because India is our friend. You will see it within two or three hours. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region,” Fathali said, expressing confidence that Indian ships would soon be able to pass through the waterway.
He also acknowledged India’s support during the recent conflict, saying the Indian government had helped Iran in several areas.
His remarks came after Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi confirmed that Tehran has permitted ships from certain countries to transit the Strait, which had been closed during the conflict. He also rejected reports that Iran had laid mines in the waterway.
For India, the situation is significant as hundreds of Indian seafarers are currently working on vessels in the region. According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, 28 Indian-flagged ships are operating in the Persian Gulf.
Of these, 24 vessels carrying 677 Indian seafarers are located west of the Strait, while four ships with 101 Indian crew members are positioned east of it. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with ship managers, recruitment agencies and Indian embassies to ensure crew safety.
Precautionary advisories issued by the Directorate General of Shipping on February 28, 2026 remain in force as India continues to monitor the evolving maritime situation in the region.
