Two oil tankers belonging to Indonesia’s state-owned energy firm are currently unable to exit the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran cites heightened security protocols and regional instability as the primary reasons for the delay. The vessels, operated by PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), remain in the Arabian Gulf awaiting the necessary clearances to navigate one of the world’s most volatile maritime chokepoints.
The situation comes amid a period of intense geopolitical friction in the Middle East, where the Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical artery for global energy supplies. Iranian officials have clarified that the delay is not a formal blockade but rather a consequence of strict security mandates currently in place due to the regional security climate.
Mohammad Boroujerdi, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Indonesia, stated that the maritime corridor is not operating under normal conditions. He emphasized that the area is currently in a sensitive state, characterized by wartime conditions, requiring every passing vessel to adhere to rigorous protocols established by Iranian security authorities.
“The Strait of Hormuz is currently not in a normal condition. It must head through several protocols set by the security side,” Boroujerdi said during a visit to Paramadina University in East Jakarta. He further explained that ships intending to transit the strait must undergo a process of coordination and negotiation with Iranian security guards to ensure safety amid ongoing conflicts.
The Logistics of the Delay
The two vessels affected are Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), the Pertamina Pride and the Gamsunoro. These massive tankers are designed to transport vast quantities of crude oil, making their movement essential for Indonesia’s energy security and the operational efficiency of Pertamina International Shipping.
According to Boroujerdi, Iran is not intentionally closing access to the strait. However, he maintained that compliance with regional rules is non-negotiable during this period of instability. “In times like this, there are certainly several protocols that must be passed, including negotiating with the security side from Iran,” the ambassador added, stressing that all vessels must follow the established guidelines.
The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz cannot be overstated; it is the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean, and a significant portion of the world’s seaborne oil passes through this narrow waterway daily.
Diplomatic Coordination and Safety Measures
In response to the impasse, PT Pertamina International Shipping is working in close tandem with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) to resolve the situation. The company has shifted its focus toward diplomatic channels to secure the release of the vessels.
Vega Pita, the Acting Corporate Secretary of PIS, confirmed that the company is maintaining intensive coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She noted that the ministry is actively engaged in diplomatic communications with the relevant Iranian authorities to facilitate the ships’ exit from the Arabian Gulf.
The primary concern for the Indonesian state firm remains the well-being of the personnel on board. “The company’s priority remains the safety of all crew members, as well as the security of the ships and their cargo,” Pita stated in an official communication. She urged for public support and prayers as the technical and diplomatic preparations continue.
Summary of Affected Vessels
| Vessel Name | Type | Current Location | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pertamina Pride | VLCC | Arabian Gulf | Awaiting Security Clearance |
| Gamsunoro | VLCC | Arabian Gulf | Awaiting Security Clearance |
The Broader Geopolitical Context
The insistence on “wartime protocols” reflects the broader tension between Iran and several regional and international actors. The Strait of Hormuz has historically been used as a lever in diplomatic disputes, with Iran occasionally threatening to restrict transit in response to economic sanctions or military pressure.
For Indonesia, a non-aligned nation that maintains diplomatic ties with both Western powers and Tehran, the situation requires a delicate balancing act. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs typically relies on quiet diplomacy to protect its commercial interests in high-risk zones, avoiding public escalation while ensuring the safety of its citizens and assets.
Maritime security experts note that when a region enters a “sensitive” status, standard transit corridors often become subject to “security screenings” or “coordinated windows,” where ships are only allowed to move in convoys or at specific times to avoid miscalculation by naval forces operating in the area.
As of the latest updates, the Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro remain stationed in the Gulf, with PIS and the Indonesian government monitoring developments on a daily basis. The next critical step involves the finalization of technical preparations and the approval of the transit window by Iranian security forces.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the impact of regional instability on global energy transit in the comments below.
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