Image for representation purposes only India and Iran are expected to hold discussions this week on securing safe passage for Indian-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as shipping disruptions continue to affect energy cargo movement in the Gulf region. The discussions are likely to take place on the sidelines of the BRICS Sherpa and foreign ministers’ meetings in New Delhi on May 14-15, according to reports. The talks come as several India-bound ships remain stuck west of the Strait of Hormuz due to tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Indian officials have said there is currently no formal or blanket arrangement in place for Indian ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing communication between New Delhi and Tehran. Over recent weeks, India has been in touch with Iranian authorities to facilitate the movement of tankers carrying energy cargoes to India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had earlier said India was maintaining direct communication with Iran to help ensure safe maritime movement. Diplomatic engagement between the two countries has already helped some India-bound LPG carriers cross the strait safely. Iran has also said that “non-hostile” vessels may continue to use the route if they coordinate with Iranian authorities and follow security requirements. According to reports, around 40-50 India-bound ships were stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over India’s energy supplies. Another official update said 13 ships were still in the Persian Gulf awaiting movement clearance. Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to remain in contact with Iran to facilitate the movement of the remaining vessels. He said 11 Indian ships had already exited the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic coordination. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes. Around 40 per cent of India’s crude oil imports and nearly 90 per cent of its LPG supplies move th