EconomyPoliticsWorldHOT2h ago

Iranian-Linked Gunboats Reportedly Attack Merchant Vessels in Strait of Hormuz

TLDR

IRGC gunboats attacked merchant vessels in Strait of Hormuz on Saturday.
Two Indian ships forcibly turned back; shootings reported, but no injuries.
Projectile hit container vessel near Oman, causing damage to containers.
Iran blames US blockade for re-closing waterway; India summoned envoy.

Multiple merchant vessels, including an oil tanker, were reportedly fired upon by gunboats linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. Maritime sources, including the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), indicate that at least two to three vessels were impacted. The captain of one tanker reported that two gunboats opened fire without issuing a prior radio challenge, though the vessel and its crew are reported safe. This incident, occurring approximately 20 nautical miles north of Oman, comes as merchant vessels in the area reportedly received messages from the Iranian navy declaring the vital waterway shut again. The full impact on all vessels involved remains unclear.

Story Update

Update #2\u00b7 Apr 18 · 2:46 PM

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy gunboats have forcibly turned back two Indian-flagged merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, with shootings reported during the incident. While no injuries or damage were sustained by the Indian ships, which included a very large crude carrier (VLCC), they were compelled to turn back. In response, New Delhi has summoned the Iranian ambassador. Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a projectile hit a container vessel 25 nautical miles northeast of Oman, causing damage to its containers. Iran has accused the US of violating a ceasefire by maintaining a blockade on its ports, stating this as a reason for re-closing the strategic waterway.

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