Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supplies, has become a focal point of international concern. India currently has 28 ships in the region, carrying 778 Indian citizens, navigating between the western and eastern approaches of the Strait. The tanker Shenlong, under an Indian captain and flagged in Liberia, safely reached Mumbai with 135,335 metric tons of crude oil from Ras Tanura despite drone attacks on the Saudi refinery earlier this month. The vessel had to turn off its tracking system while passing through the conflict zone for safety reasons. Meanwhile, Iranian forces have conducted repeated strikes on ships and installations near the Strait, prompting heightened alert among regional and global powers. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasizing the priority of Indian citizens’ safety and uninterrupted energy supply. In response to the disruptions, India increased Russian oil imports by 50% and ordered enhanced domestic gas production. Global nations, including Japan and the UK, monitor the Strait closely, given that roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas trade passes through it. The safe arrival of the Shenlong provides India a crucial respite in the midst of an intensifying regional conflict.


