External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasized the importance of direct engagement with Tehran as the most effective way to restore maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, as India works to safeguard its energy supplies amid rising tensions in the Middle East. In an interview with the Financial Times UK, he said that India is in active discussions with Iran to help reopen the crucial shipping route, which carries nearly one fifth of the world’s oil trade.

Jaishankar indicated that these diplomatic efforts are already producing positive outcomes. According to him, India believes it is more productive to maintain dialogue and coordination with Tehran rather than step away from engagement. He stated that continuing conversations are necessary because the situation still requires ongoing work and cooperation. As an example of progress, the minister pointed to the successful movement of two Indian flagged vessels, Shivalik and Nanda Devi. These ships are transporting about 92,712 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas and are currently heading toward the Indian ports of Mundra and Kandla.

However, he clarified that there is still no comprehensive arrangement covering all Indian flagged ships passing through the strait. At present, vessel movements are being handled individually, with approvals granted on a case by case basis. Jaishankar’s remarks come after US President Donald Trump warned of possible additional military strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island. In a post on social media, Trump called on allies such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and Britain to deploy naval forces to help secure the key shipping corridor.

Regarding India’s approach, Jaishankar stressed that New Delhi remains committed to sustained diplomatic dialogue. He added that while India could share its experience with European partners, each nation’s engagement with Iran is shaped by its own specific circumstances. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas reported that the Indian flagged tanker Jag Laadki left Fujairah on Sunday. The ship, carrying 80,800 metric tonnes of Murban crude, had been loading at a terminal that later became the target of an attack.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.