Indonesian Diplomats Lobby Iran for Release of Pertamina Tankers

Jakarta – Indonesian diplomats are actively engaging with Iranian authorities to secure the safe passage of two Pertamina tankers, Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, currently held in the Strait of Hormuz. The efforts approach amid heightened tensions in the region impacting vital shipping lanes.

Diplomatic Efforts Underway

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its representative in Tehran, has been in communication with Iranian officials to ensure the safety of the Indonesian-flagged vessels. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Indonesian Representative in Tehran, has held meetings with the relevant authorities in Iran and continue to coordinate closely with local parties to obtain the latest information regarding the situation in Strait of Hormuz as well as to ensure the safety of Indonesian-flagged ships,” stated Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Vahd Nabyl Achmad Mulachela on Monday, March 16, 2026.

Prior to contacting Iran, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs consulted with Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) to gather information and coordinate a response.

Current Status of the Tankers

As of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, two Pertamina tankers remain in the Arabian Gulf awaiting clearance to transit the Strait of Hormuz. These are the Pertamina Pride, a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) transporting crude oil to meet domestic energy needs, and the Gamsunoro, which carries cargo for third-party consumers.

Two other PIS vessels, PIS Rinjani and PIS Paragon, have already successfully exited the conflict area.

Regional Tensions and Shipping Disruptions

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has grow increasingly unstable due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This has led to disruptions in shipping routes and the stranding of numerous vessels, including the Pertamina tankers. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global energy supplies, connecting the Persian Gulf to international markets.

Pertamina’s Response

Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with maritime and local authorities to ensure the safety of its crew and cargo. PIS continues to carry out intensive monitoring 24/7 in real-time of all fleet and crew positions. The company has also clarified that reports circulating on social media claiming the ships had left the Strait of Hormuz escorted by Iranian Navy ships are inaccurate.

Despite the current challenges, Pertamina maintains that the energy supply chain remains secure, supported by a fleet of at least 345 ships.