Two Indian-flagged ships attacked crossing Strait of Hormuz as Iran reasserts control
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday after reversing a previous decision, but immediately fired on tankers attempting to pass through.
- The Iranian Revolutionary Guard warned that any vessel approaching the strait would be considered a target as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports continues.
- India confirmed two of its flagged vessels were attacked and expressed deep concern, calling in the Iranian envoy.
Iran has reasserted control over the vital Strait of Hormuz, reversing its earlier decision to reopen the waterway and firing on tankers attempting transit. The Iranian joint military command declared that the strait is now under "strict management and control of the armed forces," signaling a return to a more assertive posture.
The Revolutionary Guard issued a stark warning, stating that any ship approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be treated as a target if it did not remain at anchorage. This action is framed by Iran as a response to the ongoing US blockade of its ports, which Tehran considers a violation of a ceasefire agreement.
This escalation has raised concerns about global energy supplies, as roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes through the strait. India confirmed that two of its flagged crude oil carriers were attacked and has lodged a protest with the Iranian envoy in New Delhi, expressing "deep concern" over the incident.
We warn that no ship, of any kind, should leave its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted
Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.