Iran Conflict — 2026-03-25
Indian Navy Escorts 22 Energy Ships Through Hormuz Under Operation Urja Suraksha
India deployed five-plus warships to escort 22 identified vessels, including 20 high-priority LNG, LPG, and crude carriers, through the
Analysis
India's bilateral deal with Tehran for naval escorts represents the most significant sovereign transit arrangement through Hormuz to date. It sets a precedent where individual nations negotiate passage terms directly with Iran, potentially fragmenting the coalition position that Hormuz must remain open to all traffic unconditionally. China's free passage and India's negotiated access contrast sharply with the stranded US-allied fleet.
India's bilateral deal with Tehran for naval escorts represents the most significant sovereign transit arrangement through Hormuz to date. It sets a precedent where individual nations negotiate passage terms directly with Iran, potentially fragmenting the coalition position that Hormuz must remain open to all traffic unconditionally. China's free passage and India's negotiated access contrast sharply with the stranded US-allied fleet.