Strait of Hormuz and India's Energy Security
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, approximately 33 km wide at its narrowest point. It is the world's most important oil chokepoint, through which approximately 20-21 million barrels of crude oil pass daily — about 20% of global oil consumption and 30% of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade. For India specifically, approximately 50% of its energy imports (crude, LPG, LNG) transit through the Strait. Iran's ability to threaten or restrict Strait traffic gives it enormous leverage over energy-importing nations, including India. India launched Operation Urja Suraksha — a naval deployment — to ensure safe passage of Indian-linked energy tankers through the Strait during the conflict.
- Strait of Hormuz: 20-21 million barrels of crude oil daily (~20% of global oil trade)
- India's energy exposure: ~50% of crude oil, ~60% of LNG, ~80-85% of LPG imports transiting through Hormuz
- India's urea imports: ~75% from Gulf countries via this route — fertiliser supply chain exposed
- Iran allowed "friendly nations" (India, China, Russia, Iraq, Pakistan) transit through the Strait
- Operation Urja Suraksha: Indian naval deployment for energy tanker protection during conflict
- Over 1.7 million tonnes of crude, LNG, and LPG stranded on Indian-linked vessels during peak blockade
● Tracked since March 02, 2026 · last seen July 30, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes