Iranian Coast Guard Attacks Chemical Tanker with Indian Crew Near Oman
The Iranian Coast Guard has attacked a chemical tanker, MT Siron, flying the Togolese flag, which had Indian crew members on board, near Oman. This incident, occurring on April 25, has raised alarms regarding maritime safety in the region. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that all crew members are safe and are in constant communication with the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the situation. This attack follows previous incidents involving Iranian forces targeting Indian vessels, highlighting ongoing tensions in the area. The situation remains critical as authorities work to ensure the safety of maritime operations.
| Apr 27, 2026, 18:17 IST
Incident Involving Indian Crew on Chemical Tanker
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported on Monday that a chemical tanker flying the Togolese flag was attacked by Iran near the coast of Oman, with Indian crew members aboard. This incident occurred on April 25, involving the vessel MT Siron, located near the outer port area of Shinas.
Iranian Coast Guard Opens Fire on Tanker
Iranian Coast Guard Opens Fire on Tanker
During an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia, Mandeep Singh Randhawa, director of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated that an incident involving the Togolese-flagged chemical tanker MT Siron was reported on April 25, 2026, with Indian crew members on board. The event took place near the outer port area of Shinas, Oman. Randhawa further explained that the vessel was navigating alongside other ships when the Iranian Coast Guard intercepted it and fired warning shots; he confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard are safe.
Shipping Ministry in Contact with MEA and Others
Shipping Ministry in Contact with MEA and Others
The ministry has stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian missions, and other maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety of sailors and shipping operations in the region. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of the crew and maritime activities, confirming that all Indian sailors present in the area are secure.
Previous Incidents of Gunfire on Indian Vessels
Previous Incidents of Gunfire on Indian Vessels
It is important to note that the IRGC had previously fired upon two other Indian vessels, VLCC Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav, while they were attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, forcing both ships to turn back. India had lodged a strong protest regarding these incidents. However, no crew members aboard the vessels were injured. This marked the first instance where Iranian security forces targeted an Indian ship amid escalating tensions following attacks on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28.