Crude Oil Tanker Shenlong Safely Docks at Mumbai Port Amid US–Israel–Iran War Tensions; India Boosts Maritime Security

A major maritime development unfolded as the Liberia-flagged crude oil tanker Shenlong Suezmax arrived safely and docked at Mumbai Port on March 12, 2026. This became the first India-bound vessel to transit the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz successfully. This is due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. The Indian tankers were carrying approximately 1,35,335 metric tonnes of crude oil loaded from Ras Tanura in Saudi Arabia which is one of the world’s largest oil export terminals. The tanker’s successful arrival also reflects India’s diplomatic engagement with regional powers; the passage was facilitated after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with the Iranian Foreign Minister, resulting in Iran granting safe passage clearance for Indian-flagged ships.