The first India-bound crude oil tanker to pass through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of the Iran–US conflict has safely reached Mumbai, offering relief to energy markets and easing concerns over disruptions to India’s oil supply. The Liberia-flagged tanker Shenlong docked at Mumbai Port after completing the high-risk journey from Saudi Arabia.

The vessel had loaded crude oil at Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura terminal on March 1 before setting sail toward India. After navigating the conflict-affected Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most vital oil shipping routes—the tanker arrived in Mumbai around March 10 carrying more than 135,000 metric tonnes of crude.

Its safe passage is significant because maritime traffic in the region has sharply declined following escalating hostilities between Iran and the United States. Several commercial vessels have faced threats or attacks in recent days, forcing shipping companies and governments to reassess routes through the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf with global markets.

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Reports indicated the tanker temporarily switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) while passing through the high-risk zone, a tactic sometimes used by ships navigating conflict areas to avoid detection or targeting. Maritime tracking data later showed the vessel reappearing after exiting the strait and continuing toward India.

The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments and is critical for India, which imports a large share of its crude from the Middle East. Any prolonged disruption in the waterway could significantly impact global energy prices and supply chains, making the successful arrival of the tanker particularly important for the country’s energy security.

Officials and shipping analysts say the tanker’s arrival may signal that limited oil traffic could continue through the strait despite the conflict, though the situation remains volatile and closely monitored by governments and maritime security agencies worldwide.

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