India-linked Tanker Crosses US Blockade: Vital LPG Supply

An Indian-linked tanker, the Sarv Shakti, successfully crosses the US-blockaded Strait of Hormuz. This ship carries around 45,000 tons of liquefied petroleum gas and is headed to India. This marks the first crossing since the US imposed a blockade on vessels linked to Iran. The ship passed Iran's Larak and Qeshm islands before entering the Gulf of Oman. The Indian Oil Corporation is the buyer of this LPG cargo, although they haven’t commented yet. This crossing is crucial as India seeks to fill supply gaps caused by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Currently, India is the world's third-largest oil importer and second-largest LPG consumer, making these supplies vital. To address shortages, India has boosted its domestic LPG production by 60% to 54,000 tons. However, daily consumption has dropped by 10,000 tons to 80,000 tons. With panic among consumers rising, this successful tanker voyage is essential for stabilizing fuel supplies in India, impacting millions.