Government Negotiates to Free Two Pertamina Vessels from Arabian Gulf; Bahlil: Let's Hope, Yes

Two Pertamina oil tankers, the VLCC Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, remain trapped in the Middle Eastern conflict zone. To secure their release, the Indonesian government is negotiating through several ministries, including the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).

“There are two vessels, two cargoes. These are still under negotiation, God willing, they will be completed soon. Very soon. Let’s hope, yes,” explained Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

The Pertamina Pride has completed its loading process and is currently positioned at Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia. Both vessels remain in the Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf.

The Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro will transit through the Strait of Hormuz once the situation in the narrow waterway is deemed safe.

“These vessels are awaiting safe conditions to exit through the Strait of Hormuz. Both are in safe condition,” explained a Pertamina spokesman on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

This situation ensures the domestic fuel supply chain remains secure.

“The supply and distribution chain for energy remains solid, supported by at least 345 vessels under the management of other Pertamina Group entities,” the spokesman stated.

According to statements from an Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) spokesman, both vessels disregarded warnings and orders not to transit the Strait of Hormuz.

“Every vessel intending to pass through must obtain permission from Iran,” he stated, according to ABC News on 12 March 2026.

Thai officials reported that at least three crew members from the Mayuree Nare vessel went missing following an attack.