RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are affecting Indonesia’s energy shipping activities. Two tankers owned by a subsidiary of PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) remain stranded in the Hormuz Strait, a vital route for global oil trade.

The Indonesian government is pursuing diplomatic channels to secure the release of the vessels. The effort comes amid military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has heightened tensions in the region.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, said the two Pertamina ships are in safe condition while awaiting developments. “The ships are currently anchored to find a safer place while we conduct negotiations,” Bahlil said after a joint iftar event at the ministry in Jakarta on Thursday, March 5, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He added that the situation does not disrupt national energy security. The government has prepared alternative measures by seeking other energy sources, including those from the United States. “The geopolitical situation is not in good condition, but the government is prepared to design and prepare all alternatives for crude oil, fuel, and LPG, and Insha Allah it will be safe,” he said.

Iranian media previously reported that the Hormuz Strait was effectively closed following military attacks by the United States and Israel. The Strait is a strategic corridor for about one-fifth of the world’s oil trade.

Each day, around 20 million barrels of oil, nearly 20 percent of global consumption, pass through the strait. It is also a main route for liquefied natural gas exports from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Meanwhile, PIS reported that four of its ships are operating in the Middle East. The Gamsunoro is loading cargo at Khawr al-Zubayr, Iraq, while the Pertamina Pride has finished loading and is anchored at Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia. The PIS Rinjani is currently in Khur Fakkan, UAE, and the PIS Paragon is unloading cargo in Oman.

PIS confirmed that two of its ships remain in the Gulf area: the Pertamina Pride, managed by NYK, and the Gamsunoro, managed by Synergy Ship Management. Both are being monitored in real time to ensure safety.

PIS Acting Corporate Secretary Vega Pita said the company continues to coordinate with various parties to ensure the ships can leave the Gulf area immediately. “We are trying to get both ships out of the Gulf area as soon as possible. Currently, our fleet team is in close communication with the management to coordinate and ensure the safety of the crew and ships,” she said. ***