Tension escalated over the alleged firing on Indian tanker Sanmar Herald in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian IRGC accused of firing, ships had to return. India lodged protest with Iran. The incident escalated the Strait of Hormuz, shipping security and oil trade crisis.
Indian Tanker Sanmar Herald: Tension flared up in the Strait of Hormuz after an audio recording of the captain of the Indian-flagged tanker Sanmar Herald surfaced. In this, the captain is heard repeatedly pleading with the Iranian military forces (IRGC) that he was earlier allowed to transit, but now he is being fired upon. Panic is clearly visible in the voice of the captain – “You had given me permission to go… Now you are firing… Let me return.” This message is said to be from the time when the ship was trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Firing from gunboats and sudden change of course
According to reports, gunboats of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire while intercepting two merchant vessels. These ships also included a supertanker, which was loaded with approximately 2 million barrels of Iraqi crude oil. After the firing, both the ships had to change their course and return west. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also confirmed that activity by armed boats was observed in the maritime area.
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“Hormuz closed again” – VHF broadcast increases panic
During the incident several ships heard a radio broadcast claiming that the Strait of Hormuz had been "completely closed". The broadcast said the move was taken after talks with the US failed and no ships would be allowed to pass. This message spread panic throughout the maritime area, after which many ships immediately changed their direction.
India's strong reaction: Iranian ambassador summoned
After the incident, the Indian government summoned the Iranian ambassador and lodged a strong protest over this entire matter. The Ministry of External Affairs described the incident as a matter of grave concern and demanded ensuring safe sea routes. According to government sources, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is continuously monitoring the situation and all necessary steps are being taken for the safety of Indian seafarers.
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Iran's clarification and attempt at diplomatic balance
Meanwhile, an attempt was also seen from Iran's side to calm the situation. The Iranian representative in India said he was not aware of the details of the incident and that relations between the two countries remained strong. He expressed hope that the matter would be resolved soon.
Growing uncertainty in sea lanes
The Strait of Hormuz is an extremely important route for global oil trade. In such a situation, such incidents raise serious questions not only on the energy supply and maritime security of India but also of the entire world. At present the situation remains tense and international monitoring has been intensified.
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