Some oil companies plan to avoid using ships that appear on a new blacklist issued by Iran, according to Reuters, which cited unnamed sources in a report published Wednesday.
The move comes after Iran added dozens of vessels to the list, including ships linked to Indian and Pakistani operators, over alleged violations near the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters reported that at least some firms in the oil sector intend to steer clear of those vessels to reduce risk.
The blacklist was introduced as Iran and Oman continue talks on a temporary arrangement for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global crude exports. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that the two countries are still working on an accord, while Al Jazeera reported that a temporary route agreement has been reached. The details of that deal remain unclear.
The Hindu reported that at least three Indian oil companies plan to avoid the blacklisted ships. NDTV said the list includes 45 vessels, some of which are flagged to Indian and Pakistani interests, for what Iran describes as violations in the strait.
The situation reflects growing friction in the region’s shipping lanes, where Iran has sought to assert control over vessel movements. For oil traders and shippers, the practical effect is a narrowing pool of tankers considered safe to use for cargo moving through the area.
Watch for further clarity on the Iran-Oman accord and whether more companies follow the lead of those already planning to bypass the blacklisted vessels.
