Thailand asks Iran to allow stranded Thai ships through the Strait of Hormuz

Thailand has asked Iran to help secure the safe passage of about eight Thai-flagged ships stranded at either end of the Strait of Hormuz.

The request was made by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during his meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, on the sidelines of the BRICS (Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates) foreign ministers’ meeting in India on Friday.

During the informal discussion, Sihasak reportedly expressed concern over the armed conflict in the Middle East and its global consequences, particularly the navigation restrictions imposed on the Strait of Hormuz where many vessels from numerous countries are stranded, including about eight Thai-flagged vessels.

In response, the Iranian foreign minister is reported to have said that he understands Thailand’s concerns and the need for the reopening of this vital shipping lane. The Iranian minister also expressed optimism that the blockade would be lifted once a peace agreement can be concluded between Iran and the US.

Sihasak promised the Iranian foreign minister that Thailand will soon provide humanitarian aid, including medicine and medical supplies, to Iran through Oman.