Trump Triggers Fresh Crisis Fear for India

US President Donald Trump’s decision to block movement of traffic to and from Iranian ports led to trouble to India yet again. Over 15 Indian-flagged vessels, including those carrying LNG and LPG, crude oil, container ships, dredger and chemicals, are stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz following the US announcement on blocking Iranian ports and other coastal areas, due to failure of ceasefire talks between US and Iran in Pakistan.

In March, over 10 Indian-flagged vessels with LPG, crude oil and LNG were stranded in the Persian Gulf following the attack on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28. In retaliation, Iran restricted the access to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global crude oil and liquified natural gas supply.

Now, the movement of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz has been disrupted as the US Central Command said enforcement of blocking the ports would begin on Monday. The blockade would be implemented at Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington will block all ships entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, stating that Iran was trying to “extort” through the strategic channel.

In view of the US’ announcement over disruption of movement through the Strait, the Indian Navy has been trying to have closely coordinate with the merchant vessels operating in the region. Reportedly, six Indian naval ships are present near the Persian Gulf, monitoring and assisting the vessels for their safe passage.

On April 11, LPG tanker Jag Vikram crossed the Strait of Hormuz and is on way to Mumbai, expected to arrive in Mumbai on April 15, with nearly 20,400 tonne of LPG and a crew of 24 members. The Indian Navy said that 10 of the total 25 Indian-flagged vessels in the region had crossed the Hormuz.

It is learnt that despite the severe tension at the place, Indian Navy is following all protocols to make the sail smooth for the vessels. However, over 30 incidents have been flagged by the security agencies in the wider Gulf region during the recent weeks. India is maintaining maritime intelligence and coordination with 28 countries for the safe passage of commercial ships through the Gulf.

The US issued directions for continuous passage of vessels for non-Iranian commercial traffic but strict blocking of vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports. In retaliation, the Iranian officials warned that any attempt to restrict maritime access would be met with countermeasures.