Indian-flagged oil tankers attacked in Strait of Hormuz; New Delhi summons Iranian ambassador
India summons Iran’s ambassador after two Indian-flagged oil tankers carrying crude were attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, New Delhi says.
India has confirmed an attack on Indian-flagged oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting New Delhi to summon Iran’s ambassador for urgent talks. The Ministry of External Affairs said two vessels carrying crude were struck while attempting to pass the strategic waterway. India’s top diplomat Vikram Misri conveyed deep concern and demanded swift clarifications and protective measures for ships bound for India.
India summons Iranian ambassador for clarification
The External Affairs Ministry said it called the Iranian ambassador to meet with Vikram Misri to discuss the incident and India’s security concerns. New Delhi conveyed that such attacks on vessels flying the Indian flag are unacceptable and require an immediate response from Iranian authorities. Officials urged Iran to inform the relevant authorities of India’s position and to resume measures that facilitate safe passage for ships headed to India.
Incident occurred during attempted transit of the Strait of Hormuz
According to the ministry statement, the two tankers were transiting the Strait of Hormuz when they were attacked while laden with crude oil. The ministry did not immediately release the names of the vessels, the flags’ registration details beyond their Indian registry, or the precise nature of the attack. New Delhi said it was seeking further factual information and coordination to ensure the safety of maritime traffic.
Details on ships, cargo and crew remain limited
India has confirmed the cargo consisted of crude oil destined for Indian ports, but official statements stopped short of providing full technical or ownership details. The ministry said the investigation is ongoing and that it expects timely updates from Iranian authorities on any casualties, damage assessments, and the identities of any assailants. New Delhi is also in contact with shipping firms and insurers to monitor the situation and protect the welfare of crew members.
Diplomatic demands and requests to Tehran
Vikram Misri pressed the Iranian envoy to convey India’s position to Tehran and urged the immediate resumption of procedures to facilitate passage through the strait for vessels bound to India. The ministry said India expects assistance in investigating the incident and practical steps to prevent recurrence, including measures to secure commercial shipping lanes. New Delhi framed its appeal as both a matter of national interest and a concern for international maritime safety.
Implications for India’s energy supplies and maritime trade
The Strait of Hormuz is a key conduit for seaborne oil shipments to Asia, and disruptions there can have direct consequences for India’s energy imports. Any sustained insecurity in the corridor could raise shipping premiums, alter routing decisions, and complicate logistics for crude deliveries that underpin industry and refining operations. Indian officials emphasized that safe, uninterrupted maritime transit is essential for economic stability and urged regional actors to help preserve the safety of international shipping.
Calls for investigation and regional maritime cooperation
New Delhi’s immediate demand is for a transparent investigation and for Tehran to provide all available information on the attack and the perpetrators. Indian authorities also signalled readiness to work with international partners, regional states, and maritime agencies to enhance surveillance and protective measures in the area. Analysts say coordinated efforts will be required to deter attacks, protect seafarers, and maintain freedom of navigation through the waterway.
The ministry said India will continue to press for swift clarifications and for concrete steps that ensure the safe passage of vessels destined for Indian ports. New Delhi is monitoring the situation closely, liaising with commercial shipping operators and other governments, and seeking updates from Iranian authorities as the investigation proceeds.