The Iranian Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, labelled India a “reliable and compassionate” partner during a press conference on April 13 in New Delhi. He expressed appreciation for the robust ties between the nations, stating, “We have a good relation with the Indian government. We want good preparation for Indian ships.” He assured that Indian vessels would have safe passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, while reaffirming Iran’s territorial claims over the waterway.
The ambassador acknowledged India’s support amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and emphasised the importance of people-to-people connections. “I want to thank all the Indian people. I believe that they have demonstrated that they are truly reliable and compassionate partners in times of hardship,” he remarked, thanking the Government of India for facilitating essential arrangements during this challenging period.
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
Fathali underscored the significance of the Strait of Hormuz while addressing the current escalation of tensions in the region. He stated that the waterway remains under Iranian jurisdiction and referred to past conflicts concerning its territorial status. “Before the war, the Strait of Hormuz was open. They attacked us for days, and after that, they accepted a ceasefire,” he noted, elaborating on the ongoing challenges faced by Iran regarding territorial integrity.
Further commenting on diplomatic relations, the ambassador accused the United States and Israel of violating prior commitments. “For us, diplomacy is a continuation of the struggle of our defenders of Iran. We have not forgotten, and we will not forget US history breaches of commitments and ill intentions,” Fathali asserted, illustrating Tehran’s deep-seated mistrust towards Western nations.
In light of these tensions, Fathali claimed that aggressive external actions had led to the current state of affairs. He highlighted the significance of previous negotiations, asserting that any transition from dialogue to conflict was influenced by aggression from other nations. “In the twelve days’ war, Iran was in negotiation, and the Zionist regime and the United States started the attack,” he stated, referring to the hostilities that have shaped the current geopolitical landscape.
Increased Maritime Activity Amid Tensions
Coexisting with these diplomatic developments, maritime activities involving Indian vessels have notably increased. The Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas tanker, Jag Vikram, has successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, becoming the ninth vessel to do so amidst the ongoing crisis. Currently escorted towards Indian shores, the tanker is expected to arrive at an Indian port on April 13, marking a significant milestone for Indian maritime operations in the region.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the successful passage of Jag Vikram, a vessel crewed by twenty-four Indian members. He shared updates via the social media platform X, highlighting the significance of this journey, which took place between April 11 and April 12, 2026. The tanker joined other Indian-flagged vessels, such as MT Shivalik and BW TYR, which have also navigated the strategic waterway safely.
Nevertheless, the environment for safe passage is complicated. Although the Indian government is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts with Tehran to facilitate the movement of ships, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that there is no blanket arrangement for Indian ships. Prior arrangements made in the face of recent tensions emphasize the delicate balance of maritime operations under current geopolitical pressures.