India has not held any discussions with the United States regarding participation in efforts to secure shipping through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday, according to a Reuters report.
The clarification comes as global concerns mount over the security of shipping routes in the Middle East following escalating tensions in the region. The narrow waterway between Iran and Oman is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, carrying a large share of global crude oil shipments each day.
The United States has reportedly reached out to several allies seeking support to safeguard commercial shipping passing through the strait.
According to reports, Donald Trump has urged several countries (including France, China, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom) to contribute naval support to maintain safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The call for coordinated security measures comes amid rising fears that ongoing hostilities in the region could disrupt global oil supplies.
Tensions escalated after airstrikes conducted by Israel and the United States in late February triggered a broader conflict involving Iran, raising concerns about maritime security and energy supply chains.
The uncertainty surrounding shipping in the region has already had a significant impact on energy markets. Benchmark Brent crude prices have surged by more than 40%, reflecting investor concerns that any disruption to tanker movement through the strait could tighten global oil supplies.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most important maritime routes for energy trade. A substantial portion of crude exports from major producers in the Persian Gulf passes through the narrow channel before reaching international markets.
Any prolonged disruption could have ripple effects on global energy prices, trade flows and inflation.
Meanwhile, the European Union is examining ways to strengthen maritime security in the region.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc is considering expanding its existing naval mission, Operation Aspides, which currently focuses on protecting shipping routes in the Red Sea.
The EU is evaluating whether the mission could extend its scope to the Persian Gulf or whether member states could form a separate “coalition of the willing” to safeguard vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
Read more: Govt Looks to Cushion Airlines from Jet Fuel Price Shock Amid West Asia Conflict.
As geopolitical tensions intensify in the Middle East, the security of shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global energy markets. While the United States has approached several nations to help secure the waterway, India has clarified that it has not engaged in discussions with Washington on the matter. The evolving situation continues to be closely watched by governments and markets alike due to its potential impact on global oil supplies and trade flows.
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Published on: Mar 16, 2026, 5:39 PM IST
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