In a major diplomatic setback for India, Iran has officially denied providing any “special arrangements” or immunity to Indian vessels navigating through the volatile Strait of Hormuz. Amid the escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran, Tehran’s clarification has sparked fresh concerns regarding India’s maritime trade and energy security.

Earlier reports suggested that New Delhi had secured a diplomatic guarantee from Tehran to ensure that Indian commercial ships would not be targeted or blocked in the event of a full-scale conflict. However, a spokesperson from Tehran slammed these claims as “completely baseless.” Iran reiterated that no specific country is being given preferential treatment and that all international laws regarding the blockade will be applied strictly if the situation worsens. This development is particularly alarming for India, as a significant portion of its crude oil imports flows through this narrow but crucial chokepoint. With Iran standing firm on its refusal to grant concessions, the Indian government now faces the daunting task of finding alternative routes or negotiating harder to safeguard its economic interests and the lives of thousands of Indian sailors currently at sea.