Pertamina Tankers Set to Cross Strait of Hormuz

Two Indonesian-flagged oil tankers operated by state energy company Pertamina successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz on April 18, 2026, after being temporarily detained by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) earlier in the week, according to multiple Indonesian and international maritime reports.

The vessels, identified as the MT Pertamina Dock 5 and MT Pertamina Dock 6, were halted while carrying crude oil cargoes through the strategic waterway between Oman and Iran. Iranian naval forces intercepted the tankers near Qeshm Island on April 16, citing unspecified security concerns, but released them following diplomatic engagement between Jakarta and Tehran.

Pertamina confirmed in a statement that both ships resumed their voyage toward international waters after safety checks were completed. “The safety of our crew and vessels remains our top priority,” the company said. “We are in continuous coordination with relevant authorities to ensure secure passage through critical maritime routes.”

The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of global oil trade passes, has seen periodic tensions due to regional military activity. Iran’s IRGCN has previously detained commercial vessels in the area, often citing allegations of maritime violations or security breaches, though many such incidents are later resolved without escalation.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it had maintained direct communication with Iranian officials throughout the detention period. A spokesperson emphasized that the resolution was achieved through diplomatic channels and reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to freedom of navigation under international law.

Maritime security analysts noted that while the incident did not disrupt broader shipping flows, it underscores the ongoing vulnerability of commercial traffic to geopolitical flashpoints in the Gulf region. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office had issued routine advisories for vessels transiting the area, urging heightened vigilance.

As of April 18, both tankers were reported to be proceeding normally toward their next port of call, with no further interference from Iranian forces. Pertuna added that crew members were unharmed and that cargo integrity was maintained throughout the episode.