Positive Response from Iran Enables Indonesia to Begin Discussions on Technical Release of Two Pertamina Ships
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), has begun discussing the technical aspects of releasing two Pertamina tankers still detained in the Strait of Hormuz. This step follows Indonesia’s negotiation efforts receiving a positive response from Iran.
“PIS, along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is currently discussing the technicalities to ensure that the two ships, namely Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, can cross the Strait of Hormuz safely,” said Acting Corporate Secretary of Pertamina International Shipping, Vega Pita, when contacted in Jakarta on Saturday (28/3/2026).
Pertamina Pride operates to meet national energy needs, while Gamsunoro serves energy distribution for third parties. Vega stated that for now, both ships are still in the Arabian Gulf/Persian Gulf. Pertamina’s priority is the safety of all crew members, as well as the security of the ships and their cargo.
“We ask for prayers and support from all Indonesian people so that this process can be resolved well,” said Vega.
She also expressed appreciation and thanks to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia for its full support in handling the situation. Since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the war between the United States (US)-Israel and Iran, PIS has conducted intensive coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has actively engaged in diplomatic communications with relevant authorities.
“To date, these diplomatic efforts continue to proceed,” said Vega.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) of Indonesia has assured that the Iranian government has responded positively to the Indonesian government’s request for the two Pertamina tankers still detained in the Strait of Hormuz to pass safely.
According to Spokesperson of Kemlu RI, Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela, his side, together with the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran, has conducted intensive coordination with all relevant parties in Iran from the outset for the safety of the tankers.
“In its development, there has been a positive response from the Iranian side,” said Nabyl in response to ANTARA’s questions regarding the progress of negotiations on the Pertamina tankers in Jakarta on Friday (27/3/2026).
Following the positive response conveyed by Tehran, follow-up steps have been carried out by relevant parties on technical and operational aspects, said Nabyl, although no specific time has been given for when the tankers can exit the Strait of Hormuz.