Tensions Rise Over Hormuz Strait Amid US-Iran Conflict

The Hormuz Strait has emerged as a critical battleground in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, impacting global oil trade and energy supplies. India, heavily reliant on this vital corridor for its crude oil and gas needs, faces increasing challenges as tensions escalate. Recent incidents involving Indian vessels highlight the precarious situation, with Iran intermittently allowing passage while maintaining a blockade. As India navigates these complexities, the stability of its energy supply remains a pressing concern, prompting diplomatic efforts to ensure safe transit for merchant ships. This article delves into the implications of the conflict on India's energy landscape and the broader geopolitical ramifications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 20, 2026, 22:01 IST

Overview of the Hormuz Strait Situation

New Delhi: The Hormuz Strait has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, characterized by a cycle of opening and closing. This strategic waterway is crucial for nearly one-fifth of the world's oil trade, making its blockade a significant tactic for both sides to exert pressure. Consequently, economies reliant on Middle Eastern energy supplies are grappling with disruptions and uncertainties.

India's Dependency on the Strait

India is among the Asian economies that depend on the Hormuz Strait for its crude oil, LPG, and LNG requirements. Following the recent conflict involving the US and Israel, Iran decided to close this vital energy corridor. Since then, Iran has intermittently allowed Indian vessels to pass through.

Escalating Tensions

The situation has become increasingly complex. Recently, Iran announced that the Hormuz Strait was open, yet the US continued its blockade of ships heading to or from Iranian ports. This led Iran to re-establish the closure of the Strait.

Incidents Involving Indian Vessels

On Saturday, the Indian-flagged tanker 'Desh Garima' successfully navigated through the Hormuz Strait. However, two other vessels, Sanmar Herald and Jag Arnav, came under fire from boats belonging to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) while attempting to pass through the conflict zone, forcing them to turn back. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries among the crew.

Current Supply Stability

Currently, India's crude oil supply appears stable enough to meet domestic demand, supported by continuous imports from Venezuela, West Africa, and other key suppliers. Additionally, the extension of exemptions from US sanctions has facilitated access to Russian crude already present in the sea for immediate needs.

India's Diplomatic Response

In response to the firing incident, India summoned Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Fathali to express its 'deep concern.' During the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized the importance India places on the safety of merchant vessels and crews, reminding the ambassador that Iran had previously ensured safe passage for ships heading to India.

Implications for India

MarineTraffic data indicates that several Indian and foreign vessels heading to Indian ports are still awaiting clearance near the Hormuz Strait. Official statistics reveal that 13 Indian ships are currently in the Persian Gulf (west of Hormuz), six in the Gulf of Oman (east of Hormuz), one in the Gulf of Aden, and three in the Red Sea.

Supply Disruptions

Since the onset of the US-Iran conflict, India has experienced supply disruptions, heavily relying on imports for its energy needs. This has particularly affected the availability of LPG, prompting the government to prioritize domestic consumption and restrict commercial availability.

Increased Russian Crude Imports

In terms of crude oil, India has significantly ramped up its purchases of Russian crude since the conflict began. In fact, imports of Russian oil are nearing their highest levels since June 2023, with no immediate signs of decline. This increase has been aided by the temporary lifting of the ban on Russian oil by the Trump administration.

Expert Insights

Experts suggest that India's crude oil supply remains stable enough to meet domestic demand, thanks to ongoing imports from various suppliers. However, they caution that LPG and LNG supply disruptions may persist. According to Kepler's data, at least two LPG tankers are currently stranded near the Hormuz Strait. If the blockade continues, especially if sanctions are applied to Indian-flagged vessels, supply challenges may arise in the coming days.