Iran Denies Imposing Tolls on Indian Oil Tankers in Strait of Hormuz

Clarification from Iran's Ambassador

Mohammad Fathali, the Iranian Ambassador to India, has stated that Iran has not levied any tolls on Indian oil and gas tankers navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. This clarification follows the introduction of charges after the US-Israeli military actions in late February. The ambassador's remarks come in response to US President Donald Trump's accusations of Iran engaging in 'extortion' by charging fees for passage through this vital waterway. Trump has even suggested blocking vessels that comply with such tolls.

During a press briefing at the Iranian embassy in New Delhi, Fathali remarked, 'You can ask the Indian government if we have charged anything up to now.' He emphasized that despite ongoing tensions, Iran and India maintain a strong relationship, sharing mutual interests and a collective destiny.

India's Energy Dependence

India relies heavily on West Asia for its energy needs, importing approximately 90% of its oil and gas, with nearly half of its crude oil and LPG supplies transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. This route is crucial for India's energy security.

Following a temporary ceasefire announced last week, India's Ministry of External Affairs categorically denied any discussions or payments regarding tolls with Iran. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, 'There has been absolutely no discussion on the issue of toll between India and Iran.' He reaffirmed India's stance on advocating for 'free and safe navigation' through the strait.

The Indian government has consistently maintained that it has not paid any tolls, despite earlier reports suggesting that Iran was charging fees to certain vessels. New Delhi asserts that it has been granted passage as a 'friendly' nation. Recently, at least eight Indian-flagged LPG tankers have successfully navigated the route, although the government has been managing fuel usage, leading to a surge in grey market prices, in some instances reaching four times the usual rate.

Current Tensions in the Persian Gulf

This clarification from the Iranian ambassador comes amid heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf, particularly following the US's enforcement of a naval blockade on Iranian ports. While transit through the strait for vessels heading to non-Iranian destinations has not been entirely halted, the situation has introduced uncertainty into global energy markets, raising alarms for countries like India that are heavily reliant on imports.

For the time being, both Tehran and New Delhi seem eager to preserve their energy partnership, with the Iranian envoy underscoring the enduring ties between the two nations, even during these challenging times.