Two Indonesian Oil Tankers Remain Trapped in Strait of Hormuz, Says Bahlil

Jakarta — Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has provided an update regarding two tanker vessels belonging to his subsidiary, PT Pertamina International Shipping, that remain detained in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Bahlil, both vessels are carrying crude oil cargo and are currently undergoing negotiations to proceed on their journey.

“Two ships, two cargoes. As per specifications, but it remains in negotiation. God willing, very soon, let us pray, very soon it will be resolved,” Bahlil said at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

Two Pertamina International Shipping vessels have departed from the Middle Eastern conflict zone, whilst two remain in the Arabian Gulf.

Separately, Acting Corporate Secretary of Pertamina International Shipping Vega Pita explained that of four vessels operated by PT Pertamina International Shipping in the Middle Eastern region, two have already departed the conflict area: the vessels Rinjani and Paragon.

“Currently, there are 2 vessels still operating in the Middle Eastern region, namely VLCC Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, which are in the Arabian Gulf. These vessels are awaiting a safe situation to exit through the Strait of Hormuz. Both are in safe condition,” Vega said in a written statement.

According to her, the Gamsunoro vessel is servicing cargo belonging to a third-party customer. Meanwhile, the VLCC Pertamina Pride is on a mission to transport crude oil (light crude oil) supplies to meet domestic energy requirements.

In addition to these vessels, she noted that energy supply chains and distribution remain solid, both in international and Indonesian waters, supported by at least 345 vessels under the management of other Pertamina Group entities.

Coordinating with the government, Pertamina Group applies regular, alternative and emergency methods in determining the most effective and safe supply chain methods to meet the energy needs of the community and ensure smooth distribution.

Additionally, Pertamina International Shipping continues to conduct intensive 24/7 real-time monitoring of all fleet positions, crew and workers.

“We also maintain close coordination with maritime authorities and local competent authorities to ensure the safety and security of all ship crews and cargo being transported,” she added.