Centre dismisses report claiming Iran sought return of seized tankers in exchange for Hormuz safe passage

The Indian government has rejected reports claiming that Iran sought the return of three tankers seized by India in exchange for allowing safe passage to Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz, calling the allegation “baseless”.

Government sources said there had been no discussions of such an arrangement between New Delhi and Tehran. Officials also clarified that the vessels in question are not Iranian-owned, contradicting claims made in the report suggesting a possible deal between the two countries.

The clarification followed reports that Iran had asked India to release three tankers allegedly seized near Indian waters earlier this year. The vessels reportedly include Asphalt Star, Al Jafzia and Stellar Ruby, which were detained in February over alleged violations such as concealing vessel identities and suspected involvement in ship-to-ship fuel transfers.

The reports suggested Tehran had linked the release of the tankers to the safe movement of Indian-flagged ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route connecting the Persian Gulf to global markets. However, Indian officials said the claim of any such quid-pro-quo arrangement was incorrect.

India has been in contact with Iranian authorities regarding the safety of Indian-flagged merchant vessels operating in the region, especially as tensions escalate due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Officials said these communications are focused solely on ensuring maritime security and the safe transit of ships.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint during the ongoing Middle East conflict, with attacks on ships and threats to close the passage disrupting global shipping routes. The waterway handles roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments, making it one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

India has significant stakes in keeping the route open as a large portion of its crude oil and LPG imports pass through the strait. Officials have said New Delhi remains engaged with regional stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies and the safety of Indian seafarers.

The government’s denial comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing concerns about energy security and shipping safety in the Gulf region.