Indonesia Negotiates for Safe Passage of Pertamina Tankers in Strait of Hormuz
Jakarta – Indonesia is actively engaged in diplomatic talks with Iranian authorities to ensure the safe passage of two Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) oil tankers currently navigating the volatile Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing tensions in the Middle East, involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, have created a precarious situation for maritime traffic in the region.
Current Situation
As of March 7, 2026, two PIS oil tankers remain affected by the heightened tensions. One vessel, nicknamed Pertamina Pride, completed loading fuel in Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia, but is unable to proceed through the Strait of Hormuz. The other, Gamsunoro, is currently loading cargo in Iraq’s Khor Al-Zubair. Approximately 200 crude and oil product tankers globally are currently stranded in the Persian Gulf due to the near-total halt of vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz The Jakarta Post.
Diplomatic Efforts
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is prioritizing the safety of the tankers and their crews. Director General for Asia Pacific and Africa Affairs, Santo Darmosumarto, stated that dialogue with the Iranian government is crucial. “Regarding the Pertamina tankers, this is being followed up by our colleagues at the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran because the dialogue must be conducted with the Iranian government,” Darmosumarto said during a media briefing in Jakarta on Friday Tempo.co.
These diplomatic and coordination efforts aim to ensure the Pertamina vessels can “safely navigate the Strait of Hormuz” Jakarta Globe. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has similarly confirmed the government is negotiating for the release of the tankers Tempo.co.
Impact on Indonesia’s Energy Security
Despite the situation, Indonesian officials have assured the public that the country’s energy security is not immediately threatened. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia indicated that Indonesia is actively seeking alternative energy sources, particularly from the United States, to mitigate any potential supply disruptions Jakarta Globe.
Addressing Public Concerns
Minister Bahlil Lahadalia urged citizens not to engage in panic buying of fuel, emphasizing that Indonesia has sufficient fuel stocks to meet domestic needs. He clarified that Indonesia’s oil storage capacity allows for reserves of up to 25 days, and that the country has diversified its sourcing to include the United States, Nigeria, and Brazil Tempo.co.
Regional Implications
Indonesia recognizes the importance of the Middle East as a key trading partner and acknowledges that the ongoing conflict dynamics could have significant domestic impacts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is intensifying communication with relevant parties to assess and address these potential impacts, in addition to prioritizing the safety of Indonesian nationals in the region Tempo.co.
Indonesia is also maintaining dialogue with Iranian authorities to ensure the safety of its tankers amid the ongoing war involving Iran, the United States and Israel Antara News.