The Indonesian government is currently engaged in high-level diplomatic discussions with Iran to ensure the safe transit of its national tankers through the volatile Strait of Hormuz. A spokesperson from the Indonesian Foreign Ministry confirmed on Saturday that Tehran has responded favourably to Jakarta’s efforts, offering “positive consideration” for vessels belonging to the state energy firm, Pertamina. This diplomatic push comes as escalating military strikes between United States-Israeli forces and Iran have caused global oil prices to surge, with Tehran maintaining a firm grip on the vital maritime waterway.
Currently, two major Indonesian tankers—the Pertamina Pride and the Gamsunoro—remain stationed in the Gulf awaiting clearance. According to Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela, the Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, the Indonesian embassy in Tehran and the Iranian embassy in Jakarta have been working closely to coordinate a safe exit for these vessels. The Pertamina Pride is reportedly transporting crude oil for domestic Indonesian consumption, while the Gamsunoro is carrying fuel oil destined for external international markets.
In response to the positive signals from Tehran, Pertamina International Shipping has begun essential preparations to facilitate the transit. Acting corporate secretary Vega Pita stated that the company’s absolute priority remains the safety of the crew, the security of the vessels, and the protection of their cargo. These preparations include ensuring that all crew members are fully briefed on emergency protocols and that the ships are covered by comprehensive maritime insurance suitable for the current high-risk environment in the Middle East.
The regional shipping crisis has been severe, with maritime tracking platform Kpler reporting a staggering 95 per cent plunge in commodities passing through the strait between 1 and 26 March. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards recently stated that the route remains closed to any vessels linked to their “enemies,” further complicating global energy logistics. This month alone, the British naval maritime security agency (UKMTO) has recorded 24 incidents involving commercial vessels in the Gulf region, including 11 targeted tankers, highlighting the extreme danger facing merchant shipping.
Amidst these tensions, Thailand has also successfully reached a similar agreement with Iran. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Saturday that Thai oil tankers have been granted safe passage, a move expected to alleviate domestic fuel shortages and prevent a recurrence of the supply disruptions seen earlier this month. With over 80 per cent of the crude oil and liquefied natural gas passing through the Strait of Hormuz destined for Asian markets, Southeast Asian nations are increasingly forced to navigate complex geopolitical waters to secure their national energy interests.
