Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that he discussed the "serious situation in the region" with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as New Delhi seeks ways to ensure the safe passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on platform X, Modi expressed his "deep concern over escalating tensions, civilian casualties, and damage to civilian infrastructure," adding that "ensuring the safety of Indian nationals, as well as the uninterrupted flow of goods and energy, remains India's top priority."

The message did not specifically mention maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital channel that carries about one-fifth of the world's crude oil and is essential for meeting India's energy needs. The narrow waterway has effectively been closed since attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran began late last month.

According to informed sources, India has been in discussions with Iran to secure the passage of more than 20 tankers through the strait. These sources indicated that negotiations are ongoing and are being handled by India's Ministry of External Affairs. They requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the topic.

The vessels, laden with crude oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG), have been stranded and unable to transit since the U.S. and Israel initiated attacks on Iran late last month. However, if they can reach their destinations, they would help alleviate supply constraints. India sources nearly half of its crude oil, two-thirds of its LNG, and almost all of its LPG imports from the Middle East.

One of the sources mentioned that ten of the ships are carrying crude oil purchased under contracts signed by refiners including Indian Oil Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation.