The Gamsunoro: Previously Evaded Houthi Attacks, Now Detained in Strait of Hormuz

JAKARTA — The Gamsunoro tanker has become one of two Indonesian vessels unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iranian conflict situation.

According to the official website of the vessel’s owner, Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), the Gamsunoro is a crude oil distribution tanker serving consumers across various regions worldwide.

Motor Tanker (MT) Gamsunoro is a Long Range (LR) class vessel built in 2014. The ship has a maximum deadweight tonnage (DWT) capacity of 104,280 DWT and cargo capacity of 113,000 cubic metres.

The vessel has operated in international waters including Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa since 2021, and subsequently ventured into American waters. Gamsunoro is one of 60 vessels operated by PIS serving international distribution routes.

The vessel is classified as one of the most fuel-efficient in its class, featuring low fuel consumption and eco-ship design. It is classified as an Aframax, a medium-sized oil tanker, though with reduced dimensions, enabling lower operating costs and greater operational flexibility.

The ship previously escaped the Red Sea when Yemeni Houthi forces were operating in 2024. After navigating past the Red Sea, which is patrolled by Houthis opposing Israel, Gamsunoro continued its voyage through the Suez Canal at that time. The vessel was transporting crude oil cargo and successfully navigated oceanic waters towards American territorial waters.

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has lobbied Iranian authorities to ensure the safety of two Pertamina tankers—Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro—in the Strait of Hormuz.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through Indonesia’s representation in Tehran, has held meetings with relevant Iranian authorities and continues to maintain close coordination with local parties to obtain current information regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and to ensure the safety of Indonesian-flagged vessels,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela to Kompas.com on Monday (16 March 2026).

Vahd explained that the Foreign Ministry first established communication with Pertamina International Shipping before engaging with Iranian authorities, which control the Strait of Hormuz.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to maintain communication and coordination with PIS to closely monitor the development of the situation,” Vahd said.