ATHENS: According to multiple maritime security and shipping sources, at least two commercial vessels reported being struck by gunfire while attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. The precise extent of the damage or impact remains unclear at this time.
Iran’s Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) has stated that Iranian naval forces intercepted and compelled two Indian-flagged ships to reverse course westward out of the Strait, with reports suggesting warning shots were fired during the confrontation.
One of the ships targeted is identified as a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) supertanker, carrying approximately 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil. This incident follows Iran’s Central Military Headquarters announcing a renewed closure of the strategic maritime route, emphasizing that all passage through the waterway now requires explicit authorization from Tehran.
In summary, two Indian vessels were forced to retreat westward from the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian naval forces, with gunfire reportedly involved in the interception. The targeted tanker is notable for its cargo of Iraqi crude oil.
