NEW DELHI, March 13, 2026 — Iran has issued a formal assurance that Indian vessels will be granted unhindered passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for global energy supplies. Speaking in the national capital, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, declared that Tehran recognizes India as a strategic partner with shared regional interests.
The Ambassador stated that high-level dialogues between the two nations occurred recently to address maritime concerns arising from the ongoing regional conflict. He affirmed that the Iranian government is committed to facilitating smooth navigation for Indian tankers and merchant ships through the strategic waterway.
“India is our friend,” Ambassador Fathali asserted following the International Quds Day Conference. “We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region.”
The envoy maintained that the recent communication between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian focused heavily on de-escalating regional tensions. He affirmed that both governments are working closely to resolve any bilateral obstacles. Regarding the broader geopolitical climate, Fathali noted that while Iran does not seek war, it remains prepared to defend its interests if required.
The diplomat further declared that the relationship is built on common faith and interests, asserting that “good news” regarding further cooperation would be shared in the near future. The assurance is expected to provide significant relief to India’s energy sector, as a large portion of the country’s oil imports transitions through the Hormuz bottleneck.
