The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that a tanker approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman was approached by two IRGC gunboats without prior VHF challenge, after which shots were fired. The crew and vessel remained safe, with no reports of serious damage or injuries. A second Indian-flagged vessel, the bulk carrier Jag Arnav (carrying urea bound for India), was also reported in the vicinity and forced to reverse course.
Maritime tracking data showed the Sanmar Herald and other India-bound ships, including state-owned tankers Desh Vaibhav and Desh Vibhor, abruptly turning westward after attempting to transit eastward. At least four Indian-flagged vessels reversed direction, while one other (Desh Garima) successfully crossed earlier. This brings the number of Indian vessels currently held in the Persian Gulf to around 14.
The firing occurred amid confusion over the strait's status. Iran had briefly declared the waterway “completely open” earlier in the day, only to reverse course and reimpose restrictions. The IRGC has asserted operational control, requiring explicit approvals for passage.
India reacted swiftly. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Iran's ambassador to New Delhi, Mohammad Fathali, to lodge a strong protest and demand immediate facilitation of safe passage for Indian ships.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed "deep concern" and emphasized the safety of merchant mariners. India reminded Iran that it had previously facilitated safe passage and demanded an immediate resumption of that cooperation.
