Two India bound oil tankers pass through Strait of Hormuz with tracking turned off

Two oil tankers carrying about 3 million barrels of Iraqi and Arab crude oil destined for India passed through the Strait of Hormuz between March 5 and 10 with their transponders switched off, according to a source cited by Moneycontrol. One of the tankers was loaded at the Al-Basra Oil Terminal in southern Iraq, while the other carried crude from the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, the source added.

Ship attack highlights rising risks

In a separate incident on Wednesday, a Thailand-flagged bulk carrier bound for India was attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The assault caused a fire on board, triggering an emergency rescue operation. The episode highlights the growing risks for commercial shipping as tensions between Iran and the United States continue to escalate.

India engages Iran amid energy security concerns

Amid the rising tensions, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday. The discussion marked their third conversation since the West Asia crisis began, as New Delhi intensifies diplomatic efforts to safeguard its energy supplies. The talks come at a time when the Strait of Hormuz a critical global oil chokepoint is facing what analysts describe as a virtual blockade due to the regional conflict.

Strait of Hormuz Key to global oil trade

According to data from the US Energy Information Administration, around 20 million barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products moved through the Strait of Hormuz in 2025. This accounts for about 25% of the world’s seaborne oil trade, underscoring the waterway’s strategic importance. Experts note that alternative routes for oil shipments bypassing the strait are limited, making disruptions particularly risky for global energy markets.

Indian Ships and Seafarers in the Region

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said 28 Indian-flagged vessels are currently operating in the Persian Gulf region. Of these, 24 vessels are west of the Strait of Hormuz carrying 677 Indian seafarers, while four vessels are east of the strait with 101 Indian crew members on board. The government said it is closely monitoring the situation and ensuring the safety of Indian ships and seafarers amid the escalating tensions in West Asia.