Việtnam Engages Iran to Facilitate Safe Passage of Vessels Through Strait of Hormuz
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Vietnamese authorities have intensified diplomatic efforts with Iran to ensure the safe transit of Vietnamese vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, as disruptions persist following the month-long conflict between the United States and Iran.
The development was confirmed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Phạm Thu Hằng during a regular press briefing in Hà Nội on Thursday.
Responding to media queries, Hằng stated that Việt Nam has been actively coordinating with Iranian authorities to facilitate the passage of its vessels, including oil tankers, through the critical maritime corridor, which is essential for global oil and gas shipments.
Since the onset of the conflict, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has worked closely with the Ministry of Construction and directed Vietnamese diplomatic missions in the Middle East to closely monitor developments, provide regular updates, and maintain contact with Vietnamese ships and crew operating in the region.
Authorities have also developed contingency plans to assist vessels if needed. According to the spokesperson, all Vietnamese vessels and crew currently in the area remain safe.
“From the outset of the conflict, when Vietnamese vessels encountered difficulties in the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with relevant agencies, has been actively engaging concerned parties to ensure security and facilitate safe passage,” Hằng noted.
She added that the ministry has coordinated with the Iranian Embassy in Hà Nội and Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure support measures, ensuring both the safety of Vietnamese vessels departing the region and their timely transit through the strait.
“Currently, based on Việt Nam’s request, Iranian authorities are implementing procedures related to the movement of Vietnamese vessels,” she said.
Vietnamese authorities are also working closely with shipping companies and vessel owners to complete necessary procedures and meet technical requirements, aiming to resume normal maritime operations as soon as possible.
Citizen Protection Efforts
On the issue of citizen safety, Hằng highlighted that Vietnamese missions in Iran, Israel, and neighbouring countries are actively assessing the needs of citizens and coordinating with local authorities to provide timely assistance.
Hotlines have been maintained to support Vietnamese nationals seeking to return home or travel to third countries. To date, 556 Vietnamese citizens affected by the regional tensions have received assistance.
The missions continue to monitor the evolving situation, maintain close communication with local authorities, and prepare evacuation plans if necessary.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its advisory urging Vietnamese citizens in Iran, Israel, and nearby regions to closely follow instructions from local authorities and stay updated through official channels.
In emergencies, citizens are advised to contact the hotlines provided by Vietnamese overseas missions or the ministry’s citizen protection services.
