Russia, China & India Gain Access to Key Waterway for Shipping

Iran has granted safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels from several “friendly nations,” including Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Iraq, and Bangladesh, according to reports. This move comes as tensions remain high in the region, and as alternative shipping routes gain prominence.

The development was reported by ET Infra, and follows a Kremlin aide’s statement confirming the continued access for Russian ships through the vital waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil supply, and ensuring its safe passage is a key concern for many nations.

Alternative Routes Gain Traction

This news arrives alongside increasing interest in alternative shipping routes, particularly Russia’s Northern Sea Route (NSR), also known as the “Polar Silk Road.” China is actively promoting the NSR, and has seen a significant increase in voyages through the Arctic, including the first containership transit in 2025. More than 1,800 ships traversed Arctic polar waterways in 2025, a 40 percent increase from 2013.

The NSR offers a significantly shorter transit time for vessels traveling between the Far East and Europe, potentially saving around 4,500 nautical miles. This reduction in distance translates to both time and cost savings on fuel. Warmer temperatures are extending the travel season, with polar icebreakers carving out routes for commercial shipping.

China and Russia Lead in Arctic Shipping

According to a recent report by CNBC, China and Russia currently dominate shipping along the Northwest Passage and the NSR. The United States is responding with a $30 billion national Maritime Action Plan, which includes the planned delivery of 11 new polar icebreakers to counter this dominance. Currently, the U.S. Only has three, one of which is 50 years old.

China’s containership, the Istanbul Bridge, recently completed its first round of port calls in Northern Europe, paving the way for regular summer voyages along the NSR by 2026. Sea Legend Shipping, the operator of the Istanbul Bridge, plans to operate these regular voyages. China and Russia have also signed a new agreement to jointly develop and commercialize the NSR, focusing on cooperation in Arctic shipping, safety, and polar shipbuilding.

India’s Role in Arctic and Middle Eastern Shipping

India’s involvement extends to both the Arctic and the Middle East. As reported in June 2025 by The Diplomat, India has demonstrated interest in Arctic science and access to Russia’s energy resources in the region. Now, with the granting of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Indian LPG ships are also benefiting from the eased transit conditions.

The increased activity in the Arctic overlaps with geopolitical tensions involving Canada, Denmark, and Greenland, as well as broader national security ambitions. The situation highlights the growing strategic importance of both the Arctic and the Middle East for global trade and security.