Thailand has launched a diplomatic effort to secure the safe passage of nine cargo ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The vessels are carrying fertiliser shipments deemed critical for the country’s agricultural sector and national food security. The government is seeking assistance from Pakistan to help mediate with Iran and ensure the ships can transit safely.
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow met Pakistan’s Ambassador to Thailand, Rukhsana Afzaal, to discuss urgent maritime safety concerns. During the talks, Sihasak praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating earlier negotiations between the United States and Iran. He highlighted a previous arrangement in which Pakistani-flagged vessels were granted safe passage through the strait.
Thailand hopes to replicate this arrangement for its own vessels, which remain stranded due to regional instability. The Strait of Hormuz, jointly influenced by Iran and Oman, is a key global shipping route and has become increasingly volatile in recent weeks. The fertiliser cargo is considered essential for Thai farmers, raising concerns about supply disruptions.
Sihasak stressed the urgency of resolving the issue, warning that delays could affect agricultural production and rural livelihoods. “We must expedite the passage of these ships to ensure there is no disruption to our farming community,” he said. The situation has heightened concerns about broader economic impacts if supplies are not delivered promptly.
The diplomatic mission will continue with further engagements in the coming days. On 13 April, Sihasak is scheduled to join a special online ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to address the Middle East crisis. He will then visit Oman from 15 to 16 April following an invitation from the Omani Foreign Minister.
During the visit to Muscat, Thailand aims to leverage Oman’s shared jurisdiction over the Strait of Hormuz to negotiate the release of the vessels. Officials hope that a current ceasefire window will provide an opportunity to secure safe passage. The outcome of these talks is expected to be crucial for resolving the immediate crisis.
The Nation reported that beyond the current situation, Thailand and Pakistan also discussed plans to convene their first Joint Commission later this year. The meeting is intended to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation. The ongoing crisis has underlined the importance of diplomatic coordination in safeguarding trade and essential supplies.
Picture courtesy of The Nation
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 13 Apr 2026