India raises incident of firing on cargo vessels with Iran envoy
India on Saturday called in Iran’s Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali, in what officials described as a strong diplomatic response following a firing incident involving Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the envoy was called for a meeting with the Foreign Secretary, who conveyed India’s “deep concern” over the developments earlier in the day.
During the meeting, the Foreign Secretary underscored the importance India places on the safety of merchant shipping and seafarers. He also recalled Iran’s past cooperation in facilitating the safe passage of India-bound vessels through the strategically vital waterway.
Reiterating concern over what was described as a “serious incident of firing on merchant ships”, the Foreign Secretary urged the Iranian Ambassador to convey India’s position to authorities in Tehran and to resume, at the earliest, the process of ensuring safe transit for ships headed to India.
The Iranian envoy assured that India’s concerns would be communicated to the relevant authorities. The diplomatic move follows reports that Indian-flagged vessels were caught in escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest and most sensitive maritime corridors. Government sources indicated that New Delhi has expressed “serious concerns and displeasure” over the incident, seeking clarity on the circumstances under which Iranian forces engaged civilian shipping.
While no injuries or damage have been reported, at least one Indian-flagged vessel was forced to alter its course after coming under fire. Reports suggest that multiple vessels encountered disruptions near a detour point controlled by Iranian forces, with some ships turning back as a precaution.
Out of eight India-flagged or India-bound vessels that approached the strait on Saturday, only one — Desh Garima — was able to complete its passage successfully. The remaining ships were forced to retreat amid heightened tensions.
Authorities said the Directorate General of Shipping is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to safeguard Indian vessels and crew operating in the region. The Government reiterated that ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers remains its top priority.
