Iran has reportedly asked India to release three tankers seized earlier this year as part of discussions aimed at ensuring the safe passage of Indian-flagged or India-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, amid the ongoing regional crisis.
Indian authorities had detained the tankers near Indian waters in February after alleging that the vessels had concealed or altered their identities and were involved in illegal ship-to-ship fuel transfers. The ships—identified as Asphalt Star, Al Jafzia and Stellar Ruby—are currently anchored off the coast near Mumbai while investigations continue.
The reported request from Tehran comes as India is seeking assurances for the safe movement of its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor for energy shipments. Around 90% of India’s LPG imports originate from Gulf countries, making uninterrupted navigation through the strait critical for fuel supplies.
At least 22 Indian-flagged ships and hundreds of Indian seafarers are currently in the Gulf region as tensions continue to disrupt maritime traffic.
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