Iran assures India of support on ship movement through Strait of Hormuz, denies tolls on tankers

Iran has maintained "good contact" with the Indian government regarding the passage of Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali said on Monday, expressing Tehran's willingness to support New Delhi.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel—which began in February—has disrupted shipping through the crucial route, a channel that carries nearly 40 per cent of India's crude imports. The situation has impacted trade flows and tightened oil supplies.

Fathali clarified that Indian tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz have not paid any tolls to Iran, countering concerns raised after Donald Trump warned of blocking vessels making payments to Tehran. "You can ask the Indian government if we have charged anything up to now," he said, adding that both nations share "common interests and a common fate."

India has consistently denied paying any tolls to secure the movement of ships, including nine vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), after Iran effectively restricted transit following the outbreak of the conflict. Currently, about 15 India-flagged vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf. Roughly half of India's crude oil and LPG supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, underlining the route's strategic importance.

Iran ambassador thanks India, signals peace talks but warns Iran 'ready for war'

The ambassador also thanked Indian citizens and the government for their support during the crisis, describing them as "reliable and compassionate partners," and acknowledged New Delhi's role in facilitating arrangements during a challenging period.

On recent negotiations held in Islamabad, Fathali said discussions focused on nuclear concerns, war reparations, and sanctions relief. "We are ready for peace. We are ready for negotiation, but Iran is also ready for war," he stated, while criticising what he termed "unlawful demands."

Addressing rising regional tensions and the possibility of anaval blockade,Fathali accused the United States and Israel of initiating attacks despite ongoing talks, adding that Iran has not forgotten past breaches.

Reiterating strong bilateral ties, he emphasised that Iran is committed to ensuring safe passage for Indian vessels. "We have a good relation with the Indian government. We want proper arrangements for Indian ships," he said.

(With inputs from IANS)