Image used from reprsentative purposes NEW DELHI: The distress call from one of the Indian oil tanker’s that came under gunfire in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday has surfaced after two India-flagged vessels, forcing multiple ships to abort transit and turn back.The audio from the captain of the India-flagged tanker, shared by ABC News reporter, captures the moment vessels sought to retreat amid gunfire and conflicting passage instructions.“This is motor tanker Sanmar Herald… You gave me clearance to go. My name is second on your list. You are firing now. Let me turn back!” the captain of the India-flagged “Sanmar Herald” tanker can be heard saying in the audio widely circulated on social media.What has happened so farTwo Indian vessels targetedTwo India-flagged ships, oil tanker Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav, were targeted by Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) gunboats while attempting to cross the strait, according to maritime security inputs and tracking data.At least one vessel sustained minor damage, including a shattered window pane. No injuries have been reported.Convoy disrupted, ships turn backThe incident hit a convoy of 14 India-bound vessels carrying crude oil, LPG and fertilisers. Thirteen ships were forced to halt or reverse course at different points in the Persian Gulf.Several vessels, including Sanmar Herald, Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor and Jag Arnav, turned back near the chokepoint, while some are now drifting near Larak Island awaiting clearance.India lodges protestIndia summoned Iranian envoy Mohammad Fathali, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveying “deep concern” over the incident and stressing the need to ensure safety of merchant shipping.New Delhi urged Tehran to resume facilitating safe passage for India-bound vessels. Iran said it would convey the concerns to its authorities.Mixed signals on passageAmid the disruption, one India-flagged tanker, Desh Garima, managed to cross the strait and is now sailing toward India.However, ship tracking data showed confusion over navigation, with vessels receiving conflicting signals on whether transit was permitted.Hormuz tensions disrupt global shippingIran has tightened control over the strait, citing a US naval blockade and alleged violations of ceasefire conditions. Security agencies reported multiple commercial vessels, including Greek tankers, also turning back after gunfire and radio warnings.The Strait of Hormuz handles about a fifth of global oil and gas flows, and the latest disruption has added to uncertainty, with vessels idling, rerouting or awaiting clearance across the region.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over GovernanceBJP Leaders Protest Outside Rahul’s Residence Over Women Quota Bill; Hema Malini, Bansuri Lead10th Indian Vessel Crosses Strait Of Hormuz Since Conflict Began”Women Were Being Used” Tharoor Backs Women’s Reservation, Warns On Delimitation Issue: “You’re Firing… After Clearance!” India-Flagged Ship’s Last Words Before Hormuz Turnback123PhotostoriesDhurandhar actor Ranveer Singh loves this spread innovated in the 1940s: Here are 6 ways you can enjoy it too7 key factors that define a ‘posh’ locality in the real estate marketStrong baby names inspired by the Sun8 refreshing fruits to eat this summer for a flatter bellyAkshaya Tritiya 2026: Why these foods are considered auspicious and bring good fortune and prosperity5 watches rich men with old money wear6 healthy leaves you should add to your daily dietAkshaya Tritiya 2026: Buy these 5 things for good fortune5 grand palaces that are now world-famous museums7 factors driving real estate growth in India’s non-metro cities123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event
NEW DELHI: The distress call from one of the Indian oil tanker’s that came under gunfire in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday has surfaced after two India-flagged vessels, forcing multiple ships to abort transit and turn back.The audio from the captain of the India-flagged tanker, shared by ABC News reporter, captures the moment vessels sought to retreat amid gunfire and conflicting passage instructions.“This is motor tanker Sanmar Herald… You gave me clearance to go. My name is second on your list. You are firing now. Let me turn back!” the captain of the India-flagged “Sanmar Herald” tanker can be heard saying in the audio widely circulated on social media.
What has happened so far
Two Indian vessels targetedTwo India-flagged ships, oil tanker Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav, were targeted by Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) gunboats while attempting to cross the strait, according to maritime security inputs and tracking data.At least one vessel sustained minor damage, including a shattered window pane. No injuries have been reported.Convoy disrupted, ships turn backThe incident hit a convoy of 14 India-bound vessels carrying crude oil, LPG and fertilisers. Thirteen ships were forced to halt or reverse course at different points in the Persian Gulf.Several vessels, including Sanmar Herald, Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor and Jag Arnav, turned back near the chokepoint, while some are now drifting near Larak Island awaiting clearance.India lodges protestIndia summoned Iranian envoy Mohammad Fathali, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveying “deep concern” over the incident and stressing the need to ensure safety of merchant shipping.New Delhi urged Tehran to resume facilitating safe passage for India-bound vessels. Iran said it would convey the concerns to its authorities.Mixed signals on passageAmid the disruption, one India-flagged tanker, Desh Garima, managed to cross the strait and is now sailing toward India.However, ship tracking data showed confusion over navigation, with vessels receiving conflicting signals on whether transit was permitted.Hormuz tensions disrupt global shippingIran has tightened control over the strait, citing a US naval blockade and alleged violations of ceasefire conditions. Security agencies reported multiple commercial vessels, including Greek tankers, also turning back after gunfire and radio warnings.The Strait of Hormuz handles about a fifth of global oil and gas flows, and the latest disruption has added to uncertainty, with vessels idling, rerouting or awaiting clearance across the region.
