Successful Lobbying of Iran Allows Thai Tanker to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - A Thai-owned oil tanker successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely following diplomatic coordination between the Thai government and Iran. The vessel was not subjected to additional fees to avoid potential blockades in the strategic waterway.
The Bangchak Corporation-owned tanker crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday (23/3/2026) local time, following talks between Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and the Iranian Ambassador to Thailand.
“I requested that if Thai vessels need to pass through the strait, can they help ensure a safe passage?” Sihasak told reporters on Tuesday (24/3/2026) evening, as quoted by Reuters.
He added that the Iranian side responded positively to the request. “They replied that they would handle it and asked us to provide the names of the vessels that will cross,” he said.
Tensions in the region have escalated following the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran that erupted on 28 February. This situation has disrupted about one-fifth of the global supply of oil and liquefied natural gas that typically passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
As a result, Thailand is facing a surge in transportation costs and long queues at public fuel stations (SPBU), although the government has assured that energy supplies remain secure.
The successful passage of this tanker occurred two weeks after a Thai-flagged bulk carrier, Mayuree Naree, was attacked by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident triggered a fire on the ship and forced the crew to evacuate.
According to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Iranian and Omani authorities have contacted the vessel, but Thailand is still awaiting confirmation regarding three crew members reported missing.
Meanwhile, another vessel owned by SCG Chemicals is still awaiting permission to cross the strait.
In an official statement, Bangchak Corporation stated that their tanker, which had been anchored in the Persian Gulf since 11 March, is now en route back to Thailand. The company praised the coordination between the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Iranian authorities.
Both the company and sources in the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that no payments were made in relation to securing the passage.
Previously, Iran had informed the UN Security Council and the International Maritime Organization that “non-hostile” vessels could cross the Strait of Hormuz provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities.
These security efforts also involved the Thai embassy in Muscat, which collaborated with Omani authorities, as well as coordination with Iran through its embassy in Bangkok.