Iran Opens Strait of Hormuz to India and Allies, Easing Energy Concerns Amid Regional Tensions

Iran has allowed select nations including India to use the Strait of Hormuz for trade, offering relief to global energy markets while restricting access to rival countries.

Tehran/New Delhi | 26 March, 2026: In a significant geopolitical move, Iran has announced that it will allow commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for friendly nations, including India, Russia, China, Iraq, and Pakistan. The decision comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia that had disrupted critical energy supply routes. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the development, stating that while the region remains under a “war-like situation,” allied nations will continue to have access to the vital maritime corridor. However, ships from rival countries and their partners will not be permitted passage.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most crucial energy transit routes, handling nearly 20 percent of global oil and natural gas trade. Recent disruptions had raised concerns over fuel supply and price spikes in international markets. For India, the move is particularly significant as a substantial portion of its crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas imports passes through this route. The partial reopening is expected to stabilise supply chains and ease fears of fuel shortages and rising prices.

In a positive development, an LPG carrier named “Apollo Ocean” successfully reached New Mangalore Port carrying 17,600 metric tonnes of gas, offering immediate relief. The shipment is set to be distributed by Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. The decision signals a strategic balancing act by Iran, ensuring supply continuity for allies while maintaining pressure on adversaries.

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