Tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz escalated further after reports emerged that boats linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on two Indian-flagged commercial vessels transiting the waterway. Both ships were forced to alter course and retreat, though no injuries were reported.
The incident marks the first known instance of Iranian forces directly targeting Indian-flagged or Indian-owned merchant vessels amid the ongoing crisis involving Iran and the United States.
Details of the Targeted Vessels
India’s shipping authorities identified the vessels involved as the crude oil tanker Sanmar Herald and the bulk carrier Jag Arnav. According to maritime tracking data, Sanmar Herald was en route to India carrying crude oil from Iraq, while Jag Arnav had departed from Al Jubail in Saudi Arabia bound for Indian ports.
Despite the attack, both vessels and their crew members were reported safe.
The development comes even as several Indian-flagged ships had successfully navigated the strait in recent weeks without incident. At least nine vessels had crossed safely, while over a dozen others remain in the Persian Gulf region, underscoring the sudden deterioration in maritime security.
What Happened at Sea
Officials indicated that the firing occurred while the vessels were passing through one of the world’s busiest and most sensitive shipping lanes.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which monitors such incidents, reported that two IRGC gunboats approached an oil tanker without prior radio communication and subsequently opened fire. In a separate nearby घटना, another vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile, causing limited damage to containers but no fire or environmental hazard.
Sources familiar with the developments confirmed that both affected ships were Indian-flagged.
India Responds with Diplomatic Action
In response, Ministry of External Affairs acted swiftly, summoning Iran’s ambassador Mohammad Fattahi for an urgent meeting with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
During the meeting, India conveyed its “deep concern” over the incident. Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government underscored the importance of maritime security and the safe passage of commercial shipping.
India also urged Iran to ensure that vessels bound for Indian ports are allowed safe transit through the strait and called for the immediate restoration of normal shipping operations.
The Iranian envoy reportedly assured that India’s concerns would be communicated to authorities in Tehran.
Rising Tensions Amid Fragile Ceasefire
The incident comes against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to formalise a ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, even as regional tensions continue to escalate.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has reiterated that it intends to maintain control over access to the Strait of Hormuz until broader conflict-related conditions are resolved, signalling that disruptions to maritime traffic could persist.
Outlook
The targeting of Indian-flagged vessels has added a new dimension to the unfolding crisis, raising concerns not only about regional stability but also the security of global energy supply chains. With diplomatic engagements underway, the focus now shifts to whether tensions can be contained before further escalation impacts international shipping and trade.
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