India govt official says oil tanker Jag Prakash moved out from east of Hormuz Strait

An Indian government official confirmed that the oil tanker Jag Prakash has transited east of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, following reports of heightened tensions in the region. The movement comes amid conflicting statements between Indian and Iranian officials regarding access to the strait. An Indian source stated that Iran has permitted India-flagged tankers to pass through the waterway, a claim denied by an Iranian source.

Recent developments indicate that at least two India-flagged vessels, the Pushpak and Parimal, have reportedly navigated the strait safely, according to news agency IANS. Additionally, a Liberian-flagged tanker carrying Saudi Arabian crude, operated by an Indian captain, successfully transited the region and arrived at Mumbai’s port, marking the first such instance since the escalation of US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz, which handles approximately 13 million barrels of oil daily (31% of global shipments), remains a focal point of geopolitical and economic concern. Iran has asserted that vessels not aligned with US or Israeli interests may pass unimpeded, while its military has warned of targeting unauthorized ships. The ongoing conflict has disrupted maritime traffic, driven oil prices higher, and raised risks for global energy markets.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar's recent diplomatic engagement with Iran’s counterpart is seen as part of efforts to secure stable access to the strait amid the crisis. The situation underscores the strategic importance of the region and its potential to amplify volatility in global commodity markets.