India has strongly protested an incident in the Strait of Hormuz where two India-flagged oil tankers reportedly came under gunfire. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Iranian envoy Mohammad Fathali, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressing serious concern over the safety of merchant vessels and crew. India emphasized the importance of secure maritime navigation and urged Iran to resume facilitating safe passage for India-bound ships.
The incident occurred shortly after Iran reimposed restrictions on the strait, a crucial global oil transit route, following tensions involving the United States. Tehran accused Washington, under President Donald Trump, of violating prior understandings related to easing blockades on Iranian ports. Soon after, Iranian naval broadcasts declared the waterway closed to all vessels.
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Two Indian vessels, Sanmar Herald and Jag Arnav, carrying significant quantities of Iraqi crude oil, were forced to reverse course after gunshots were reported. While no damage or casualties occurred, the situation highlighted growing risks for commercial shipping. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, gunboats linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were involved in the firing.
The disruption extended beyond Indian ships, affecting multiple international vessels, including Greek tankers. The episode underscores escalating geopolitical tensions and the vulnerability of one of the world’s most critical oil corridors.
