Iran-US Pact Eases Energy, Fertiliser Flow to India, Says MEA
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reported that the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States on June 17 has positively affected the flow of energy and fertilizers to India. This development comes amid ongoing hostilities in West Asia that have disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz since late February.
During a press briefing in New Delhi on Tuesday (June 23, 2026), MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that 11 India-bound vessels have transited through the Strait of Hormuz since the MoU was signed. Among these are three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers carrying over 285,000 metric tonnes of crude oil each, one foreign-flagged LPG carrier, one foreign-flagged crude oil tanker, and six foreign-flagged bulk carriers transporting fertilizer cargo.
Mr. Jaiswal noted that the shipping situation has been positive over the past few days, with two-way traffic of India-specific vessels observed at least since June 17. However, he indicated that a permanent pause in hostilities is essential to normalise maritime traffic through the waterway, which had faced restrictions imposed by both Iran and the United States for nearly three and a half months.
As of the briefing, 10 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf region, with two having recently arrived. These ships are part of a larger group of international vessels that have been stranded since the conflict between the U.S.-Israel alliance and Iran began on February 28.
The MEA expressed hope that the remaining Indian-flagged vessels would be able to cross the Strait of Hormuz soon. The arrival of fertilizer, crude oil, and LPG tankers indicates that the maritime flow has been facilitated by the U.S.-Iran MoU. Ensuring the safety of Indian ships and sailors has remained a top priority for the Government of India throughout the conflict.
The MoU between Iran and the United States marks a significant diplomatic step, though its long-term impact on regional stability and trade remains to be seen. The Indian government continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasising the need for a sustainable resolution to ensure uninterrupted flow of essential commodities.
