India has successfully received its first crude oil shipment through the Strait of Hormuz since the onset of the Iran-US tensions. The tanker, Shenlong, flagged under Liberia and captained by an Indian, docked at Mumbai port on March 12, 2026.
The Shenlong, carrying Saudi Arabian crude, embarked from Ras Tanura on March 1 and passed through the strait on March 8. The vessel went dark to avoid detection amid heightened tensions, resurfacing on tracking systems on March 9.
Iran’s threats to block oil shipments except to China have made the Strait of Hormuz a perilous route. Nearly 20% of global crude transits this channel, making this shipment crucial for India, where over half of its energy supplies rely on this passage.
The tanker, managed by Athens-based Dynacom Tanker Management Ltd, began unloading 135,335 metric tonnes of crude at Jawahar Dweep. The cargo is destined for refineries in Mahul, Mumbai.
This development eases some concerns over energy shortages in India, Asia’s third-largest economy. However, 28 Indian-flagged vessels remain near the strait, highlighting ongoing navigational risks.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 12, 2026
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