Despite ongoing regional tensions and blockades in the vital Strait of Hormuz, Indian-flagged vessels continue to navigate the waterway safely. This secure passage is facilitated by a specific clearance process orchestrated between the Indian government, its navy, and Iranian authorities.
According to reports, the arrangement involves close coordination where New Delhi, through its embassy in Tehran, liaises directly with Iranian entities, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian navy. These Iranian bodies are responsible for vetting ships that India intends to sail through the Gulf.
Iran's Clearance Mechanism for Safe Passage
Once clearance is granted by Iran, ship captains of Indian-flagged vessels receive a precise route to follow. They are also instructed to switch off their location transponders and avoid satellite communications while under the guidance of the Iranian navy. The Indian Navy then directly contacts these shipmasters in the Gulf, providing specific waypoints and advising them to comply with Iranian instructions to stop or proceed.
This mechanism is part of a broader system Iran has implemented for clearing vessels through the strait. This comprehensive control involves government-to-government agreements, stringent vetting by the Iranian government, and, in some instances, the payment of fees for secure passage. The IRGC plays a central role in overseeing Iranian security and evaluating ships for transit.
The Vetting Process and Fees
Under these bilateral arrangements, countries initiate requests for permission through Iran's foreign ministry. These requests are then forwarded to the Supreme National Security Council, which includes representatives from the IRGC and Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Nations like India, which imports approximately 90 percent of its oil and 50 percent of its gas through Hormuz, have established distinct arrangements to ensure continued access.
Iran has explicitly prohibited ships linked to the United States or Israel from crossing the strait. The US Treasury Department has indicated its readiness to act against foreign companies found supporting illicit Iranian commerce, reinforcing international sanctions.
The IRGC conducts a thorough vetting process for ships, reviewing affiliation documents to identify any connections to the US or Israel. This process, which can take about a week, may also involve physical inspections of vessels. Ship owners are required to disclose extensive details, including cargo value, flag, origin and destination, registered owner and manager, and crew nationalities. A newly established entity, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, is now responsible for approving and taxing vessel transits.
Global Impact of the Hormuz Blockade
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has had significant global implications. By early May, an estimated 1,500 vessels carrying 22,500 sailors were reportedly trapped in the Gulf, according to the US military. The International Energy Agency has characterized the strait's blockade as the world's worst energy crisis, highlighting its critical role in global oil and gas supplies.
In addition to Iran's control, the US Navy has also imposed its own blockade outside the strait. Between April 18 and May 6, fewer than 60 ships passed through the strait, a stark contrast to the pre-conflict average of 120 to 140 ships daily.