Thai tanker passes Hormuz after talks with Iran

A Thai oil tanker has sailed safely through the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic coordination between Thailand and Iran, avoiding any transit fees.

The Bangchak Corporation vessel crossed the strategic waterway on Monday after talks between Thailand’s foreign minister and the Iranian ambassador.

The passage comes amid major disruption to shipping in the region, as the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has curtailed the flow of roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas. Thailand is facing rising transport costs and mounting pressure on fuel supplies as a result.

The development follows an incident two weeks ago in which the Thai tanker Mayuree Naree was struck by a missile, sparking a fire and forcing the crew to abandon ship. Three crew members remain missing.

Iran has said that ‘non-hostile vessels’ may transit the strait if they coordinate with its authorities. Oman also assisted in facilitating the crossing.

A second Thai vessel is still awaiting clearance to pass.

(reuters, max)