Two Indonesian Tanker Ships Still Detained at Strait of Hormuz; JK Offers Advice

JAKARTA — Two Indonesian tanker ships remain detained at the Strait of Hormuz: Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro. Jusuf Kalla, the 10th and 12th Vice President of Indonesia, has offered his recommendations.

Speaking at his residence on Jalan Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta on Sunday (15 March 2026), JK stated that the matter is clearly a government concern. “We are not discussing that situation here; it remains the government’s interest,” he said.

“Although I could certainly consult and speak with the Iranian side, there are limits. The government must be more active in lobbying Iran,” he advised. “The government must also demonstrate concern and support on humanitarian grounds to Iran. I believe the Iranian government will be receptive if we take that approach,” he added.

Both vessels are awaiting safe conditions in the Middle East before they can depart through the Strait of Hormuz.

Vega Pita, Acting Corporate Secretary of Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), stated that the company operates four units in the Middle East region. Two ships have already moved away from the conflict area: PIS Rinjani and PIS Paragon.

Meanwhile, two vessels remain operating in the Middle East region: Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, both located in the Arabian Gulf.

“These ships are awaiting safe conditions to depart through the Strait of Hormuz. Both are in safe condition,” Vega stated on Tuesday (10 March 2026).

The Gamsunoro carries cargo for third-party customers.

Despite the two ships remaining detained, Vega assured that energy supply and distribution chains remain solid, both in international waters and Indonesian waters.