Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 19: In a concerning development amid escalating tensions in West Asia, two Indian-flagged vessels were reportedly fired upon by Iranian gunboats in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz on Sunday. According to sources, no injuries or damage were reported, but both ships were compelled to turn back from their course.
The vessels, identified as Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald, came under direct fire northeast of Oman while navigating a key global shipping route vital for oil transportation. One of the ships is said to be a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC), underscoring the seriousness of the incident given the scale and importance of such tankers.
Reacting swiftly, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned the Iranian Ambassador to New Delhi and conveyed India’s “deep concern” over the incident. In an official statement, the MEA emphasised the importance India places on the safety of merchant vessels and seafarers.
Foreign Secretary, during the interaction, recalled Iran’s earlier cooperation in ensuring safe passage for India-bound ships and urged immediate steps to restore secure transit through the Strait. The Iranian envoy, in response, assured that India’s concerns would be communicated to the authorities in Tehran.
The incident unfolds against a backdrop of heightened military activity and uncertainty in the region. Ongoing tensions, including a US naval blockade of Iranian ports, have led to fluctuating control over the Strait, raising risks for commercial shipping.
Earlier in the day, Iran had claimed that control over the Strait had stabilised, even as reports suggested renewed intentions to block the passage in retaliation to US actions. This has led to confusion, with several vessels reportedly attempting hurried crossings through the narrow waterway.
Notably, just days ago, Iran had assured India of safe passage for its vessels. Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Fathali had stated that India remains among the countries Tehran considers friendly, with ongoing government-level coordination to facilitate maritime movement.
Meanwhile, Iran’s consulate in Hyderabad indicated that oil shipments to India continue despite the prevailing tensions. According to reports, India has received at least three shipments from Iran in the past week, amounting to nearly 6 million barrels of crude oil.
The latest firing incident is likely to raise fresh concerns over maritime security and the safety of international trade routes, particularly for energy-dependent nations like India.