3 Indian-Flagged Oil Tankers Safely Cross Strait Of Hormuz, Says Shipping Minister

Last Updated:June 20, 2026, 22:36 IST

Three Indian tankers Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor and Sanmar Herald safely cross Strait of Hormuz with crude oil and 94 crew, India says maritime security is top priority.

Three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers carrying over 8.6 lakh metric tonnes of cargo and 94 Indian crew members have safely transited through the Strait of Hormuz and are now on their way to India, Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Friday.

In a post on X, Sonowal described the development as a significant step in safeguarding India’s maritime interests amid heightened attention on one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes.

“Safe passage secured!" the minister said while announcing the successful transit of the vessels.

Three Tankers Carrying Crude Oil

According to Sonowal, the Indian-flagged tankers — Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor and Sanmar Herald — successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz carrying more than 8.6 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil cargo.

The vessels were also carrying 94 Indian crew members.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global crude oil shipments.

Govt Monitoring Maritime Security

Sonowal said the Government of India was closely monitoring developments affecting maritime trade routes and energy supplies.

He stated that the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways was coordinating with all relevant agencies to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and the uninterrupted movement of energy cargo.

“Under the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India is working on the highest priority to secure India’s maritime interests," Sonowal said.

Focus On Energy Lifelines

The minister added that protecting India’s maritime trade routes and energy lifelines remains a key priority for the government.

The successful passage of the three vessels comes amid global attention on shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz, a route crucial for international energy markets and India’s crude oil imports.

Officials said efforts would continue to ensure the safety of Indian-flagged vessels and crew operating in the region.

News india 3 Indian-Flagged Oil Tankers Safely Cross Strait Of Hormuz, Says Shipping Minister

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