An oil ship in the Strait of Hormuz. — Middle East Eye/VNA Photo

HÀ NỘI — Iranian authorities are implementing procedures to enable Vietnamese vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial gateway for global oil and gas supplies that have faced severe disruptions since the outbreak of the US–Iran conflict one month ago.

The update was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' spokesperson Phạm Thu Hằng at the ministry’s regular press briefing on Thursday in Hà Nội.

Responding to media queries at the briefing, Hằng stated that Việt Nam has been engaging with Iran to facilitate the passage of its vessels, including oil tankers, through this strategic waterway.

Since the conflict began, the foreign ministry has worked closely with the Ministry of Construction, directing Việt Nam's representative missions in the Middle East to closely monitor developments, regularly update information, and maintain contact with Vietnamese ships and seafarers operating along regional maritime routes, according to the diplomat.

Authorities have also prepared contingency plans to provide support when necessary. To date, all Vietnamese vessels and crew in the area remain safe, Hằng noted.

“From the outset of the conflict, when Vietnamese vessels encountered difficulties in the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in close coordination with relevant agencies, has been engaging and urging concerned parties to ensure security and safety, and to facilitate the passage of Vietnamese ships and seafarers through the area,” the foreign affairs' spokesperson said.

The ministry has also coordinated with the Ministry of Construction to work with the Iranian Embassy in Hà Nội and Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, requesting support measures to ensure the safety of Vietnamese vessels and workers leaving the area, as well as their safe transit through the strait at the earliest possible time.

“Currently, based on Việt Nam's request, Iranian authorities are implementing procedures related to the movement of Vietnamese vessels,” the spokesperson told the press.

She added that Vietnamese authorities are working with businesses and shipowners to urgently complete necessary procedures, while continuing to engage with local counterparts on technical requirements to help Vietnamese cargo vessels and crews resume movement soon, ensuring security and safety throughout their journey.

Citizen protection

Regarding citizen protection in the Middle East, Hằng said that Việt Nam's representative missions in Iran, Israel and neighbouring countries have assessed the needs of Vietnamese citizens and are coordinating with relevant authorities to stand ready to implement appropriate support measures.

In recent time, Việt Nam's representative missions in the Middle East have maintained hotline services and assisted citizens in returning home or travelling safely to third countries.

To date, 556 Vietnamese citizens stranded in the region have received support.

The missions continue to monitor developments, maintain close contact with local authorities, and prepare contingency plans to ensure timely consular protection and evacuation in case of emergencies.

Hằng reiterated the ministry’s advisory urging Vietnamese citizens in Iran, Israel and neighbouring countries to closely follow guidance from local authorities and updates from Việt Nam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and overseas missions in the region.

In case of emergencies, citizens are advised to contact the hotlines published on the official websites of Việt Nam's overseas missions or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ citizen protection hotline. — VNS