Thailand has struck a deal with Iran to allow its vessels and tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz, likely alleviating the nation's energy crunch, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Saturday.

"An agreement has been reached to allow Thai oil tankers to transit safely through the Strait of Hormuz," Anutin said, reported Agence France-Presse (AFP). "With this agreement in place, there is greater confidence that disruptions like those seen in early March will not recur."

Thailand has seen closed petrol stations in March, lines of vehicles at operating pumps, and especially shortages of diesel fuels. The diesel fuels are vital in farm and rural areas, used to power tractors and crop-carrying heavy trucks.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the globe's oil is shipped by tanker, and nearly all of Asia Pacific's oil, was effectively closed in early March by Iran, as part of its hostilities against Israel, Persian Gulf states, and the US.

Thai officials confirmed that Bangkok is working with Iran to ensure the safe passage of Thai vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, said Panidone Pachimsawat, deputy spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, reported the Bangkok Post.

On March 11, the Thai-registered bulk carrier Mayuree Naree suffered an Iranian attack near the Strait of Hormuz, evidently killing three crew members.

But on March 23, another Thai-flagged vessel, an oil tanker, was permitted to pass the Strait by Iran, after being stuck for nearly two weeks in the Persian Gulf.

Last week, the Thai national government reduced nationwide fuel subsidies, released some reserves, limited fuel exports and took other measures to balance supply and demand.