Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 20: Amid rising tensions in West Asia, an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker successfully transited the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, even as two other vessels were forced to turn back after coming under fire, prompting India to raise concerns with Iran over maritime safety.

According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the tanker ‘Desh Garima’, carrying 31 Indian seafarers, safely crossed the strait on April 18 and is expected to reach Mumbai on April 22.

Operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, the vessel is the 10th India-flagged ship to navigate the strait since early March, indicating continued maritime activity despite escalating regional tensions.

In contrast, very large crude carrier Samnar Herad and bulk carrier Jag Arnav reported a firing incident while transiting the strait in the past 24 hours and subsequently returned to the Persian Gulf. No injuries were reported among the crew.

The ministry stated that both vessels encountered firing while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, forcing them to reverse course, though all crew members remained safe.

MarineTraffic data also indicated that oil tankers Desh Vaibhav and Desh Vibhor reversed course near the chokepoint, bringing the total number of India-flagged ships currently in the Persian Gulf region to 14.

Following the incident, India summoned Iran’s ambassador in New Delhi to convey its “deep concern” over the safety of merchant vessels and seafarers. The Foreign Secretary emphasised the importance of ensuring secure passage for commercial shipping and urged Tehran to facilitate the movement of India-bound ships at the earliest.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the situation is being closely monitored in coordination with relevant authorities, adding that all Indian seafarers are safe.