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Indian Crew Braved Mines in Strait of Hormuz
1 Apr
Summary
- Indian tanker rerouted through a mined channel by Iran.
- 27 Indian crew faced missiles and drones daily.
- Indian Navy escorted vessel safely through the strait.
The Indian-flagged LPG tanker Pine Gas faced significant peril when rerouted by Iran through a mined channel in the Strait of Hormuz. Initially loading cargo on February 28, 2026, the vessel and its 27 Indian crew were delayed for nearly three weeks due to escalating regional conflicts.
During the extended wait, the crew witnessed daily missile and drone activity, with videos capturing projectiles streaking through the night sky. Indian authorities initially planned for the ship to depart around March 11, 2026, but escalating war delayed its clearance until March 23, 2026.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps directed the Pine Gas to navigate a less-traveled channel north of Larak Island, as the regular shipping lane was reportedly mined. The crew unanimously consented to this risky voyage, prioritizing the delivery of 45,000 metric tons of LPG to India.
The Indian Navy confirmed its role in guiding the tanker and later escorting it for nearly 20 hours from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea. The crew reported no fees paid or boarding by the IRGC, emphasizing a safe, albeit unconventional, transit. While six Indian ships have exited the Strait, 18 remain in the Persian Gulf with approximately 485 Indian seafarers.
