NewKerala.com

22 Indian Ships Await Hormuz Crossing Amid Iran Crisis: Chidambaram

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram welcomed the news that 22 India-bound ships carrying energy supplies are waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, while criticizing former US President Donald Trump's policies toward Iran. Indian authorities confirm that 611 crew members aboard these vessels are safe, and a crude oil tanker has recently arrived in Gujarat. The Indian Navy continues its protective presence in the region under Operation Sankalp to secure vital shipping lanes. The government is coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption to maritime trade and has advised ports to provide necessary concessions.

Key Points: 22 India-Bound Ships Safe at Strait of Hormuz, Chidambaram Comments

  • 22 Indian-flagged vessels await Hormuz crossing
  • Crew of 611 individuals reported safe
  • Crude oil tanker Jag Laadki arrives in Gujarat
  • Operation Sankalp ensures naval protection
  • Government coordinating to minimize trade disruption
2 min read

Good news that 22 more India-bound ships waiting to cross Strait of Hormuz: P Chidambaram

P Chidambaram calls 22 Indian-flagged vessels waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz "good news," criticizes Trump's Iran policy. Ships and crew reported safe.

"It is good and welcome news that 22 more India-bound ships... are waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz. - P Chidambaram"

New Delhi, March 19

Former Union Minister and Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday said that it is "good and welcome news" that 22 Indian-flagged vessels are waiting to cross Strat of Hormuz to fulfill country's energy needs.

He criticised US President Donald Trump for the war against Iran, which he said has caused a crisis in the world.

"It is good and welcome news that 22 more India-bound ships carrying crude oil, LNG, and LPG are waiting to cross the Strait of Hormuz. Mr Trump's war on Iran has caused a crisis throughout the world. The war must stop," he said.

Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, on Wednesday, said 611 individuals aboard 22 Indian-flagged vessels operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, including those positioned west of the key shipping route, are safe.

Meanwhile, the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, Jag Laadki, carrying approximately 80,886 metric tonnes (MT) of crude oil, arrived in Gujarat yesterday, adding to the two LPG tankers that have safely returned to India.

The two Indian-flagged LPG carriers safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz before arriving in India on March 16 and 17. MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi - carrying approximately 92,712 metric tonnes of LPG- crossed the Strait of Hormuz early Friday (March 13, 2026).

India continues to maintain a consistent naval presence in these waters under "Operation Sankalp." This initiative remains dedicated to ensuring the protection of vital shipping lanes and the safe berthing of vessels like the Jag Laadki.

The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with ship owners, Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) agencies and Indian diplomatic missions in the region, a release said. The Union Shipping Minister is actively monitoring the situation, it added. To ensure smooth maritime operations, the government is working closely with ports, shipping lines and logistics stakeholders to minimise any operational disruptions to maritime trade. Ports have been advised to extend relief measures where required, including concessions in anchorage, berth hire and storage charges.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While the safe passage of ships is a relief, Mr. Chidambaram is right to point out the root cause. Global tensions in the Strait of Hormuz directly impact our economy and fuel prices. Diplomacy, not war, is the only solution.
A
Aman W
This is a positive update. The safe arrival of Jag Laadki and the LPG carriers is crucial. But we must also think long-term about reducing our dependence on this volatile route. Investment in alternative energy and strategic reserves is key.
S
Sarah B
Respectfully, while the safety of the crew is paramount, I find it a bit simplistic to blame one foreign leader entirely. The geopolitics of the region are complex. India's balanced diplomacy and naval presence are the real good news here.
K
Karthik V
Jai Hind! Our navy is making us proud. Protecting 611 Indians and millions of tonnes of crucial supplies in such dangerous waters is no small feat. This is nation-first action. Hope the remaining 22 ships cross safely soon.
N
Nisha Z
The advisory to ports to give concessions on charges is a good, practical step by the govt. It shows they are thinking about the entire supply chain cost. Every rupee saved helps keep prices stable for the common man.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50