Iran responds positively as Indonesia moves to protect tanker routes and crews
Indonesia is stepping up diplomatic efforts to protect its energy supply chain after tensions in the Gulf put the Strait of Hormuz under intense global scrutiny.
Diplomatic Effort Intensifies
Indonesia is in talks with Iran to secure safe passage for its tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran responding positively to Jakarta’s outreach. On March 28, Foreign Ministry spokesman Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela said the Indonesian government, along with its embassy in Tehran, had communicated with the Iranian embassy in Jakarta and other relevant parties in Tehran to support the safe transit of Pertamina Group vessels.
Two Indonesian Tankers Remain in the Gulf
The talks come as Indonesian tankers Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro remain in the Gulf, according to a spokesperson for state energy firm Pertamina. Pertamina Pride is carrying crude oil for domestic use, while Gamsunoro is transporting fuel oil for external consumers. The developments have placed fresh attention on Indonesia’s energy logistics as conflict in the region threatens one of the world’s most strategic shipping lanes.
Gulf Tensions Push Oil Prices Higher
The urgency of the talks has grown after US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory response in the Gulf sent global oil prices sharply higher. Iran continues to hold influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for international oil shipments. Any prolonged disruption there could affect fuel flows, shipping confidence, and import costs for countries that depend on stable maritime trade routes.
Pertamina Prepares Next Steps
Vahd said Indonesia would follow up on Iran’s favorable consideration by making operational preparations, including ensuring crews are ready and properly insured. Pertamina International Shipping is also coordinating with the Foreign Ministry to help its vessels transit safely. Acting corporate secretary Vega Pita said the company’s top priority remains the safety of crew members, as well as the security of the ships and their cargo.
Regional Stakes Continue to Rise
Indonesia is not the only Southeast Asian country seeking guarantees. Iran has also reached an agreement with Thailand to allow Thai oil vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on March 28. That signals how regional governments are moving quickly to shield energy and trade interests from a widening Middle East crisis that could have lasting economic consequences.
Indonesia’s push for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz reflects how closely regional energy security is tied to geopolitical stability far beyond Southeast Asia. For Indonesians, the outcome matters because any disruption to tanker movements can affect fuel supply and price pressures at home. For Singaporeans, whose economy depends heavily on shipping, refining, and regional trade flows, developments in Hormuz remain a serious indicator of broader risks to energy markets and maritime stability.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , CNA (2026)
Keywords: Indonesia Tankers, Strait Of Hormuz, Pertamina Pride, Gamsunoro, Iran Talks, Energy Supply, Gulf Tensions
