Iran got nothing in exchange for passage of Indian ships through Hormuz: Jaishankar

India secured the passage of its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz through direct talks with Iran, Jaishankar said

March 16, 2026

Jaishankar highlighted India’s diplomatic engagement with Iran after two Indian LPG carriers crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely

Tensions rise in region as US plans naval deployment to secure shipping route

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said that Iran received nothing in exchange for allowing Indian-flagged vessels to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, emphasising that the development was the result of direct diplomatic engagement.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Jaishankar said India’s communication with Tehran had been effective in ensuring the safe passage of ships through the key maritime route.

“If it is yielding results for me, I would naturally continue to look at it,” he said, adding that many more Indian-flagged vessels are yet to cross the strait.

No blanket deal with Iran

Jaishankar clarified that the movement of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz was handled on a case-by-case basis, and there was no blanket arrangement with Iran regarding the passage of ships.

He also rejected suggestions that Iran received any concessions for allowing the vessels to pass.

“It’s not an exchange issue,” Jaishankar said. “India and Iran have a relationship. And this is a conflict that we regard as something very unfortunate.”

Diplomatic outreach helped ships cross

Last week, Iran allowed two India-flagged LPG carriers to sail through the Strait of Hormuz. The development came shortly after a telephonic conversation between Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, their first discussion since the outbreak of the conflict involving United States, Israel, and Iran.

The passage of the ships also followed a conversation between Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

Strategic waterway under global focus

The Strait of Hormuz, located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, with around one-fifth of global oil supplies passing through it.

Amid rising regional tensions, Donald Trump, President of the United States, has reportedly announced plans to deploy warships to ensure the security of shipping through the waterway and keep the route operational.

India has been closely monitoring the situation as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could impact global energy supplies and maritime trade.

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