India has denied any involvement in a US-led coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil passage currently blockaded by Iran. On March 16, 2026, the Indian government stated there are no bilateral discussions with the US regarding participation in such efforts.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized that while multiple countries are engaged in bilateral talks, India is not among them. This statement followed a US official’s mention of India in plans to secure the strait.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil supply passes, has been effectively closed due to escalating US-Iran tensions. Despite the blockade, some Indian ships have navigated the strait, facilitated by ongoing discussions between India’s external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, and Iranian officials.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently highlighted the global reliance on the strait, naming countries like China, Japan, and India as heavily dependent on its passage. However, India’s official stance remains detached from any formal coalition.
As tensions persist, the potential involvement of other nations is uncertain, with Japan explicitly stating no plans to dispatch naval forces. The situation continues to impact global oil prices, underscoring the geopolitical significance of the strait.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 17, 2026
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