The spark of war in the Middle East has put the entire world’s supply chain at risk. Due to the increasing tension between America, Israel and Iran, the biggest fear was regarding the supply of crude oil and LPG. But, amidst this global crisis, India has proved its strong diplomacy. On April 3, India’s seventh LPG tanker, ‘Green Saanvi’, safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most dangerous sea routes in the world, and reached the Indian coast.
When the roads were closed for the superpowers, India found a solution
After the conflict started in the Middle East on 28 February, the situation deteriorated rapidly. Iran announced the closure of the strategically important ‘Strait of Hormuz’. It became almost impossible for America and its allies to pass through this route. Many ships also became victims of attacks and shipping companies around the world started avoiding this route. In such a fearful environment, India showed diplomatic wisdom and talked to Iranian officials. This dialogue bore fruit and Iran softened its stance towards India and gave special permission to Indian ships to use this route.
‘Green Saanvi’ brought 44 thousand tons of gas
The ‘Green Saanvi’ tanker that has reached India is a Large Gas Carrier (VLGC). The total capacity of this ship of MOL India, the Indian unit of Japan’s global shipping company Mitsui OSK Lines, is 50,000 tonnes. This time it has returned safely with about 44,000 tonnes of LPG. Earlier, six other ships like Shivalik, Nanda Devi and Pine Gas had also brought fuel through this dreaded route.
However, the crisis has not been completely averted. According to sources, about 17 Indian ships including LPG tankers ‘Green Asha’ and ‘Jag Vikram’ are still stranded in the sea. The administration has full hope that soon they too will return safely.
Only these selected countries got permission to cross Hormuz
Only last week, the Iranian administration had clarified its policy and said that except America, Israel and their allies, other countries can use the Strait of Hormuz. For this they will just have to coordinate directly with Iranian authorities. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and its state TV made it clear that ships of countries like China, India, Russia, Iraq and Pakistan, which have good relations with Iran, will be allowed to pass through this route unhindered.
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