How An Indian LPG Tanker Took An Unusual Route To Escape Strait Of Hormuz

The Indian-flagged LPG tanker Pine Gas faced a perilous journey through the Strait of Hormuz after the February 28 Israel-US attack on Iran. Loaded at the UAE’s Ruwais port, the 27-member Indian crew watched missiles and drones overhead while awaiting clearance. The ship was instructed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to navigate a narrow, seldom-used route north of Larak Island due to mined regular lanes. All crew members gave consent before sailing, coordinated with Indian authorities and the shipowner, Seven Islands Shipping. The Indian Navy guided the tanker and later escorted it for almost 20 hours from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea. No fees were paid, and the IRGC never boarded, allowing the vessel to reach home safely.