Tensions Rise as Iranian Forces Intercept India-Bound Oil Ships in Strait of Hormuz

Incident Overview

New Delhi: A fleet of 14 ships bound for India, transporting crude oil and gas, faced a serious incident when the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on two of the vessels while they were navigating the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, 13 ships were forced to divert to various locations within the Persian Gulf, according to official sources familiar with the situation.

One Indian-flagged ship was struck by gunfire from the IRGC, resulting in a shattered window and compelling it to halt its journey and turn back. The damage to another vessel remains unclear, but it too has returned.

In contrast, another Indian-flagged tanker, loaded with crude oil for Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, successfully passed through the Strait and is currently en route to India, the sources confirmed.

The Iranian gunboats approached the targeted tanker and discharged their weapons without prior warning, coming within 37 kilometers of Oman. This aggressive action prompted other vessels to abandon their crossing.

The confrontation occurred in the waters between Qeshm and Larak islands.

Among the 14 vessels, seven are registered under the Indian flag, four under Liberia, two under the Marshall Islands, and one under Vietnam. Six of these ships are carrying crude oil, three are loaded with LPG, and four are transporting fertilizers, with five being bulk carriers. All 14 vessels were traveling in a convoy.

The Iranian Navy halted 13 of the ships, instructing them to remain stationary. Currently, seven of these vessels are drifting south of Larak Island, awaiting clearance from Iranian authorities.

The Indian government is reportedly in discussions with Iranian officials to ensure the safe passage of the stranded ships.

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz escalated again on Saturday, as Iran reasserted control over this vital waterway and fired upon ships attempting to navigate through it. This development coincides with the United States intensifying its blockade of Iranian ports.

The ongoing uncertainty in the Strait, which is a critical route for approximately 20% of the world's oil supply, could exacerbate the existing energy crisis.

The ceasefire agreement between Iran and the US is expected to expire by mid-next week.

Iran's joint military command announced on Saturday that "control of the Strait of Hormuz has reverted to its previous state... under strict management and oversight by the armed forces."

They cautioned that transit through the strait would continue to be obstructed as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports remains in place.