The Indian government has rejected reports claiming that Iran has been paid in cash or cryptocurrency for the safe passage of its ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the region. According to PTI news, the dispute started after an incident on April 18, when two Indian ships faced firing from the Iranian military while trying to cross the Strait of Hormuz. As a result the ships had to turn back. An audio recording related to this incident has also surfaced, in which the captain of the Indian tanker ‘Sanmar Herald’ can be heard pleading with the Iranian army – this is the motor vessel Sanmar Herald. You had given me permission to go, my name is second in the list, now you are firing. Let me return.
Refuting crypto scam claims
The incident followed reports that the ship’s owners had paid for the sea passage in cryptocurrencies to cybercriminals who posed as representatives of the Iranian military. However, the Indian government and the concerned shipping company have termed these claims as fake news.
Government’s side: Mukesh Mangal, additional secretary, ministry of ports, shipping and waterways, clarified that the ship owner has confirmed that no such payment was made. He said the firing incident has no connection with any alleged payment or scam.
Company statement: Chennai-based Sanmar Shipping issued an official statement saying that the reports of cryptocurrency scam circulating on social media are completely baseless and they are working with Indian government agencies to ensure the security of the ship.
Global energy crisis and strategic implications
The movement of commercial ships in the Persian Gulf has been affected since the war in West Asia started on February 28. The importance of the Strait of Hormuz can be understood from the fact that about 20% of the world’s total oil and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) passes through this narrow route. The disruption in movement has led to a surge in fuel prices globally and has created a supply crisis in many countries.
