India has called in Iran’s Ambassador, Dr Mohammad Fathali, to formally register its objection after an Indian-flagged merchant vessel was reportedly fired upon in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. The diplomatic step comes amid growing instability in the region and heightened scrutiny over maritime security.

According to official sources, the Ministry of External Affairs is expected to convey New Delhi’s strong dissatisfaction and seek detailed clarification from Tehran regarding the circumstances under which Iranian forces engaged a civilian commercial ship navigating one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. Authorities are particularly focused on understanding the legal and operational grounds cited for the reported action.

INDIAN SHIP FORCED TO RETREAT

Government officials confirmed that one India-registered vessel was directly affected during the incident. While no crew members were harmed and no structural damage has been reported, the ship had to change its route after reports of gunfire involving units linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

Two Indian vessels reportedly encountered restrictions near Larak Island, an area under heightened Iranian monitoring, and were compelled to turn back. A separate vessel managed to pass through the strait earlier the same day.

By Saturday morning, eight ships either flying the Indian flag or bound for Indian ports had approached the strategic channel. Apart from one vessel that successfully completed the transit, the remaining ships withdrew amid the tense situation.

OFFICIALS ON ALERT

India’s Directorate General of Shipping is actively tracking developments and coordinating measures to safeguard Indian seafarers operating in the region. The government has reiterated that the safety of its maritime workforce and vessels remains a priority.

RISING REGIONAL STRAIN

The episode unfolds against the backdrop of renewed restrictions imposed by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz amid its standoff with the United States. Competing maritime controls by both sides have increased the risk of disruption along the critical trade route, which accounts for nearly 20% of global oil shipments.

Saturday’s incident has now added a diplomatic layer to the already fragile situation, intensifying concerns over the security of commercial shipping and the possibility of further escalation in the Gulf region.