Crude Oil, LPG Vessels From India Remain Stranded In Hormuz Strait

At least 18 India-flagged ships carrying crude oil, LPG, and other cargoes remain stranded near the Strait of Hormuz amid the escalating US-Israel war against Iran, disrupting vital energy imports for the world's third-largest oil consumer. The vessels, part of an initial 28 trapped when hostilities erupted on February 28, 2026, hold approximately 1.67 million tonnes of crude oil, 320,000 tonnes of LPG, and 200,000 tonnes of LNG as of mid-March updates from India's Shipping Ministry.

Six LPG carriers, four crude oil tankers, one LNG tanker, and others including container and bulk ships are anchored primarily on the western side of the strait, which Iran has effectively blockaded for verification of non-US ownership. All 611 Indian seafarers aboard remain safe, with ports monitoring movements closely.

Progress has been gradual, with six vessels—including two LPG tankers like Shivalik and Nanda Devi—successfully transiting by late March under reported naval escorts, reaching destinations such as Mundra port with cargoes like 80,800 tonnes of UAE crude on Jag Laadki. However, roughly 18-22 ships linger, facing delays as Tehran scrutinizes manifests amid retaliatory strikes and near-500 total tankers confined in the Gulf. Recent escapes highlight diplomatic efforts but underscore persistent risks.

India, reliant on 88% imported crude, 50% natural gas, and 60% LPG—much routed via this chokepoint—faces supply chain pressures, potential shortages, and price spikes as refineries like Jamnagar await deliveries. The government is coordinating with Iran for clearances while exploring alternative routes, though global oil markets have surged 15-20% on blockade fears.

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The standoff complicates New Delhi's neutral stance, balancing ties with Israel, the US under President Trump, and energy suppliers like Saudi Arabia and UAE. With the war now beyond its "halfway point" per Netanyahu, resolution remains elusive, prolonging uncertainty for these stranded assets critical to India's economy. This crisis amplifies Hormuz's strategic peril, where 20% of global oil flows, testing India's contingency stockpiles—90 days for crude but tighter for LPG—as evacuation options for crews are weighed.

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