Indonesia-Iran Communication Continues Over Two Stranded Pertamina Tankers

Vice Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno has stated that communication between Indonesia and Iran is ongoing to find a solution for two Pertamina tankers still detained near the Strait of Hormuz. “We are engaging with government authorities, and discussions with the Iranian government are still being pursued,” said Havas following a working meeting with Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives at the Senayan Parliament Complex on Thursday. The two tankers operated by PT Pertamina International Shipping, namely Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, remain in the Arabian Gulf and have been unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz due to tensions unfolding in the region. According to Havas, progress in these efforts depends heavily on the security situation involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. “If the political situation heats up and escalates, we must unfortunately wait and see,” he said. He explained that the insurance factor has become a major obstacle, as many insurance companies are unwilling to cover the risk to ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz amid the regional tensions. Beyond insurance, navigation decisions also depend on the captain’s judgement and the approval of cargo owners, who prioritise the safety of the crew and cargo. “Many elements must align. It is not merely a matter of guarantees from state authorities, because everything must come together,” said Havas. On 22 April, Foreign Minister Sugiono said negotiations regarding the two Pertamina vessels were still underway, noting that the resolution process is complex due to the internal situation in Iran. “Sometimes what constitutes policy from the top cannot be immediately implemented on the ground. That is what we are trying to find a solution for,” Sugiono said.