JOHOR BAHRU, April 24 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government is in talks with its Iranian counterpart following reports that two Malaysian fuel-carrying tankers are stranded and facing restrictions shortly after exiting the Strait of Hormuz.

He said the government is also negotiating with Iran to enable the two vessels to pass through safely.

"The issue will be discussed immediately after earlier Malaysian ships were granted safe passage by the Iranian government, and a personal assurance by the country's president himself.

"One ship has arrived (in Pengerang, Johor), another is about to arrive and enter Malaysian waters.

"The two affected vessels that have already exited (the Strait of Hormuz) are still facing...