Indian Tankers Turn Back After Firing Incident in Strait of Hormuz
Indian Tankers Turn Back After Firing Incident in Strait of Hormuz April 19, 2026 | New Delhi Two Indian-flagged oil tankers were forced to turn back while transiting the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz after coming under firing from Iranian gunboats amid rising regional tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. No injuries were reported and the vessels did not sustain any damage, but the incident has heightened concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, through which a substantial share of global oil and gas supplies flows. Communication from one of the vessels during the episode suggested confusion at sea, with crew members attempting to clarify previously granted clearance while seeking permission to withdraw from the area as the situation escalated. In response, India conveyed its concerns to the Iranian authorities, stressing the importance of ensuring the safety of merchant sh...