NEW DELHI – India summoned Iran’s ambassador on April 18 2026 after Iranian naval forces fired on two Indian-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating US-Iran military tensions .
The vessels Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald came under fire north of Oman while attempting to transit the strategic waterway through which nearly one-fifth of global oil passes . Sanmar Herald was carrying two million barrels of Iraqi crude oil to India . No casualties were reported and both crews were safe .
An audio recording from Sanmar Herald captured a crew member telling Iranian authorities “You gave me clearance to go. You are firing now. Let me turn back” .
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri summoned Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Fathali conveying India’s “deep concern” over the shooting incident . Misri urged Tehran to resume facilitating safe passage for India-bound ships emphasizing the importance of merchant shipping safety .
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the strait would remain closed until the US lifts its naval blockade of Iranian ports . IRGC warned that “approaching the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy” and offending vessels would be targeted .
The attack occurred just one day after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared the strait “completely open” for commercial vessels . At least four Indian ships including Desh Vaibhav and Desh Vibhor turned back following the gunfire while tanker Desh Garima successfully crossed .
The confrontation threatens to disrupt global energy supplies as India the world’s second-largest LPG buyer imports significant oil and gas through the strait .
