Two Indian Oil Tankers Attacked in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
On Saturday, two vessels flying the Indian flag were fired upon while navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. This incident comes as Iran announced plans to assert control over traffic in the strait, reacting to an ongoing naval blockade enforced by the United States.
In response to the gunfire, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs summoned Iran’s ambassador in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Vikram Misri expressed India’s serious concerns about the incident, reminding the ambassador that Iran has historically allowed safe passage for ships bound for India. He urged the Iranian authorities to facilitate this process again as soon as possible.
According to multiple maritime security sources, at least two merchant ships reported being hit while trying to cross the strait. Britain’s maritime trade agency confirmed that a tanker was attacked by two Iranian gunboats, and investigations into the incident are ongoing to assess the damage.
This escalation coincides with a statement from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which declared its intent to control the strait’s traffic until a lasting peace is achieved in the region. The council stated that as long as the U.S. blockade persists, Iran would view it as a breach of any ceasefire agreements. They also indicated that Iran plans to collect fees for security and environmental services related to ships passing through.
The U.S. began implementing this maritime blockade following unsuccessful negotiations between President Donald Trump and Iranian officials. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that 23 vessels have been turned back since the blockade started this week.
In a press briefing from the Oval Office, Trump emphasized that the U.S. would not allow Iran to use the strait to exert pressure. He mentioned that productive discussions with Iran were ongoing, but acknowledged that there were concerns about the potential for renewed tensions in the region.
The situation has created uncertainty for shipowners and oil traders trying to understand Iran’s stance on keeping the strait open. A spokesperson for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards noted that previous agreements were made to allow limited passage for certain oil tankers and commercial vessels, in good faith.
Before the attacks, tracking data indicated a group of eight vessels, including oil carriers, were moving through Iranian waters. Shipowners expressed hope that they could safely navigate out of the Gulf during what they hoped might be a temporary lull in hostilities.
