Iran processing procedures for Vietnamese ships to transit Hormuz: foreign ministry

The ministry, in coordination with the Vietnamese Ministry of Construction, has worked with the Iranian embassy in Hanoi and Iran’s Foreign Ministry to seek support to ensure safe transit for Vietnamese ships and seafarers, spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said at a regular press briefing.

She said Vietnamese vessels and crews remain safe, with authorities maintaining close contact and monitoring the situation in the Middle East since the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel in late February.

The tension has effectively shut or severely disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route that normally carries about 20 percent of global oil supplies, according to industry estimates.

Hang said Vietnam has been engaging relevant parties to ensure security and facilitate navigation after some Vietnamese vessels encountered difficulties in the strait.

Iranian authorities are handling procedures related to the movement of Vietnamese vessels based on Hanoi’s request, she added.

Vietnamese agencies are working with ship owners and local authorities to complete necessary technical procedures to enable vessels and crews to move as soon as possible while ensuring safety.

Separately, Hang said Vietnam supports freedom of navigation and the observance of international law to ensure maritime security and stability.

She added that Vietnamese representative missions have assisted 556 citizens stranded in the Middle East and are preparing contingency plans for further consular protection or evacuation if needed.