India’s Ministry of External Affairs said Saturday it has summoned Iran’s ambassador to protest the “serious incident” of Iranian forces firing on two Indian-flagged merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
The attacks on the Sanmar Herald and MSC Ishyka occurred after Iran reimposed control over the strait in response to the continued U.S. blockade of Iranian ports. Iran had earlier permitted Indian vessels to transit the strait.
India had been named among nations Iran considered “friendly” for strait passage. The change in treatment represents a significant escalation in Iran’s posture and places India in an uncomfortable diplomatic position given its energy dependence on Middle East crude.
India imports approximately 80% of its crude oil, with a significant portion historically sourced from the Persian Gulf. The country has diversified toward Russian supply during the current crisis but remains exposed to Hormuz disruption.