India Receives Assurance from Iran on Safe Passage for Ships in Strait of Hormuz

In a significant development, Iran has assured India that no toll will be imposed on Indian vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes amidst heightened tensions following a U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Fattahi emphasized the strong ties between the two nations and confirmed that Indian ships would continue to have safe passage. Efforts are underway to retrieve 15 Indian-flagged vessels currently stranded in the region. The international community, including the UK and Japan, has expressed opposition to the U.S. blockade, with plans for an international conference to facilitate safe navigation through Hormuz.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 09:46 IST

Positive Developments Amid Tensions

New Delhi: Amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, there is good news for India. Iran has confirmed that no toll will be charged for Indian vessels passing through the Strait. Furthermore, it has assured that Indian ships will continue to have safe passage in the future. This announcement comes at a time when the United States has declared a blockade on Iranian ports and the Hormuz waterway. There were concerns that Iran and Oman might impose toll taxes even after the ceasefire.

During a press briefing at the embassy, Mohammad Fattahi, Iran's ambassador to India, stated, 'You can ask the Indian government whether we have collected any fees so far.' He emphasized, 'In these challenging times, we maintain strong relations. We believe that India and Iran can share mutual interests.'

Commitment to Safe Passage

In an interview with News18, Fattahi reiterated that Indian vessels would be allowed safe passage through Hormuz. He noted, 'The relationship between Iran and the Indian government is very strong and trustworthy. During difficult times, India has proven to be a wise and reliable partner, and the cultural ties between our two nations remain deep.' He added that Iran would soon announce a system detailing the process for ships to navigate safely.

Efforts to Retrieve Stranded Vessels

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways reported on Monday that efforts are ongoing to bring back 15 Indian-flagged vessels stranded in Hormuz. Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal stated that they are working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safe return of these ships. As soon as conditions are favorable and the vessels are permitted to pass safely through Hormuz, they will be retrieved. Currently, there are a total of 15 Indian-flagged and Indian-owned vessels in the area.

International Response to the Blockade

Several countries have expressed opposition to the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. The UK has openly stated its disapproval of the blockade. Japan has postponed its decision to deploy minesweepers in Hormuz. Meanwhile, Australia has indicated that it has not received any communication from the U.S. regarding this matter. Reports suggest that France and the UK will host an international conference to ensure the safe passage of vessels through Hormuz. French President Emmanuel Macron made this announcement on Monday.