Indonesian Foreign Ministry Lobbies Iran to Allow Pertamina Ships to Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry (Kemenlu) said the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran is engaging in diplomacy with the Iranian government to assist Pertamina’s tanker ships that are stuck due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The aim is to ensure Pertamina’s tankers can pass through this strategic route safely amid escalating conflict. Director General of Asia Pacific and Africa at Kemenlu, Santo Darmosumarto, said intensive communications are being conducted with various parties in Iran to ensure Indonesia’s interests, including the safety of Pertamina and its crew. “Diplomacy is currently being pursued, coordinating with related parties in Iran,” he said in a press conference on Friday (6/3). “Of course, these related parties are not just one or two but many to ensure Indonesia’s interests regarding Pertamina can continue to be protected and pass through the Strait of Hormuz safely,” he added.

Kemenlu acknowledges the security situation is still unstable and will monitor while maintaining contact with local authorities. “The overall condition is not yet conducive there. We continue to coordinate and communicate,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz is currently closed by Iran following escalations with the United States and Israel. The closure has major implications as the strait is a major energy shipping route.

Earlier, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia revealed two Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) tankers are held up due to the situation. The two vessels were carrying crude from the Middle East to Indonesia, while anchored in safer locations awaiting developments.

The Indonesian government has decided to suspend or place on hold all discussions regarding participation in the Board of Peace (BOP); The Ministry of Foreign Affairs started evacuating Indonesian citizens from Iran step by step following rising tensions in the Middle East.