By The South Asia Times

BANGKOK - Thailand has reached an agreement with Iran allowing Thai oil vessels to transit safely through the Strait of Hormuz, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced Saturday, as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with fuel shortages and the fate of three missing crew members from a vessel struck in the conflict zone.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which approximately 20% of the world's oil flows, has been effectively closed by Iranian forces since early March, with shipping reduced to a trickle amid the escalating US-Israeli war with Iran.

"An agreement has been reached to allow Thai oil tankers to transit safely through the Strait of Hormuz," Anutin told reporters at a press conference, according to AFP, adding that the development would ease concerns over fuel imports as Thailand faces mounting energy pressures.

While Thailand has secured safe passage for future vessels, the fate of three Thai crew members from the oil tanker "Mayureena Naree" remains unknown, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow revealed Saturday, according to local media outlet Khaosod.

Speaking at Government House, Sihasak said Iranian officials have gained access to the vessel, but there is still no confirmation regarding the condition or whereabouts of the three crew members. He added that he has been in close contact with Iran's ambassador to Thailand and has formally written to the Iranian foreign minister, urging swift assistance and clarification.

"We are still following up and will do everything possible," the foreign minister said.

The prime minister apologized to the public for disruptions caused by fuel price management, acknowledging that early measures aimed to ease the burden during the first phase of the crisis.

"I would like to apologise to the public for the disruption caused by the management of fuel prices," Anutin said at the "Meet the Press" event at Government House. "During the first 15 days, we decided to stabilise prices to ease the burden and allow people time to adjust."

He explained that the situation has now entered its second month, with countries worldwide implementing measures to encourage energy conservation amid continued uncertainty and a lack of clear progress in negotiations.

Anutin urged every household in Thailand to reduce fuel consumption, warning that the energy crisis requires collective action.

"If each household cuts just one litre per day, Thailand could save 10 million litres daily," the prime minister said.

He expressed confidence that the country can weather the crisis with public cooperation. "The government confirms that if we return to the level of 67 million litres, we will be able to continue living normally through Songkran, and, in fact, throughout the year. I urge the public to remain confident, not to panic, and not to hoard."

Thailand imports roughly 80% of its diesel from the Middle East, making the country particularly vulnerable to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict, which erupted on February 28 when the US and Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran, has sent global oil prices soaring past $100 per barrel and created severe supply chain disruptions across Asia.

The safe passage agreement with Iran represents a significant diplomatic achievement for Thailand, which has maintained neutrality throughout the conflict while seeking to protect its energy security. However, the unresolved fate of the three missing crew members underscores the continuing risks for vessels operating in the region.

With the Songkran holiday, Thailand's traditional New Year celebration, approaching, the government faces the dual challenge of ensuring adequate fuel supplies while managing public anxiety over rising prices and regional instability.

For the families of the three missing crew members, the wait continues. As Foreign Minister Sihasak emphasized: "We are still following up and will do everything possible" to secure their return.