Thailand Secures Iran Clearance For Oil Tanker Via Strait Of Hormuz

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, March 24 (Bernama) -- Thailand has obtained Iran’s clearance for one of its oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz following bilateral coordination.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the Foreign Ministry had submitted the names of two vessels – one belonging to Bangchak Corporation and another operated by SCG Chemicals – to the Iranian authorities.

He said Iran had granted clearance for the Bangchak oil tanker to transit the Strait of Hormuz and return to Thailand.

“It was learned on March 23 that the Bangchak vessel had safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz and is now en route back to Thailand.”

“Thai authorities are also seeking similar clearance for an SCG Chemicals vessel after submitting its details to Iran,” he told reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday.

On efforts to assist three Thai crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree, Sihasak said authorities remain hopeful that the three nationals are still alive, adding that confirmation must come from Iranian or Omani officials.

He said the ministry was informed on Tuesday morning that Iran and Oman had conducted a joint operation to access the vessel.

“Authorities have reached the ship and made contact with the three crew members, although their condition has yet to be confirmed and remains under verification,” he said.

On March 11, the Thai-flagged cargo vessel was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with 20 crew members rescued while three others were reported missing.

According to reports, the Mayuree Naree had departed Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates and was en route to Kandla Port in Gujarat, India, when it was struck by projectiles, triggering explosions in the stern and engine room and igniting a fire.

The incident occurred amid heightened regional tensions, as hostilities escalate around the strategic waterway that carries a significant share of global oil shipments.

-- BERNAMA