Dhaka has formally requested Tehran to ensure safe passage for two Bangladesh-bound vessels carrying essential commodities through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions continue to disrupt maritime traffic in the region.
Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman raised the issue with Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh during a meeting on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey on Sunday. The request comes amid growing concern in Dhaka over delays in the arrival of critical supplies.
Following the high-level talks, Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi held discussions with the Director General (West Asia) at Bangladesh’s foreign ministry on Monday. According to diplomatic sources, the meeting focused on facilitating the movement of the stranded vessels and reviewing the broader war situation affecting regional shipping routes.
Officials said one of the ships, carrying approximately 100,000 tonnes of oil, has been waiting for nearly a month to reach Bangladesh, while another vessel loaded with fertiliser remains similarly delayed. Both cargoes are considered vital for the country’s energy supply and agricultural sector.
A foreign ministry source said Bangladesh has emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that timely delivery of these goods is crucial for domestic stability. In response, the Iranian side assured Dhaka that necessary measures would be taken to enable the safe transit of the vessels through the strategically sensitive waterway.
Earlier, on April 5 in Dhaka, Foreign Minister Rahman had also raised the matter directly with the Iranian ambassador, specifically requesting safe passage for the vessel Banglar Joyjatra and another oil shipment. Tehran had indicated at the time that the issue was being taken up with relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, in a gesture of solidarity, Bangladesh has dispatched emergency medical supplies to Iran through the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to assist those affected by the ongoing conflict. Tehran has welcomed the humanitarian support, while Dhaka has reiterated its readiness to extend further assistance to help ease the suffering of the Iranian people.
