Thailand Works with Iran to Keep Critical Oil Transport Routes Open

(MENAFN) Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Saturday that ongoing talks with Iran aim to maintain safe passage for oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and reduce the risk of a major supply disruption.

“One key development was negotiations with Iran to keep oil transport routes through the Strait of Hormuz operating safely, helping to reduce the risk of major supply disruption,” Anutin told reporters in Bangkok, as reported by local media.

He noted that the Middle East conflict is “dragging on longer than expected” and “has no clear end in sight,” warning that volatile oil prices could rise further if tensions persist and the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.
The comments followed a successful transit of a Thai vessel through the Strait after negotiations with Iran and Oman. Thailand relies on Gulf nations for roughly 56% of its energy needs, valued at about $43 billion in 2024.

Earlier this month, another Thai ship attacked in the Strait ran aground, with three crew members still missing. Thai authorities have sought Iran’s assistance in locating the missing personnel.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for energy supplies to most Asian countries, continues to be effectively blocked amid the ongoing war between Iran, the United States, and Israel, which began in late February.

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