India Summons Iranian Ambassador Over Firing on Two Indian-Flagged Vessels in Strait of Hormuz: Reports

New Delhi: India has summoned Iran's Ambassador to India, Dr. Mohammad Fathali, to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) following an incident of firing at two Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz, official sources said on Saturday.

The move comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where the strategic waterway has seen repeated disruptions affecting maritime traffic and energy security. The ambassador was seen leaving the MEA premises.

In a statement, MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi was called in by the Ministry of External Affairs for a meeting with Foreign Secretary this evening. During the meeting, Foreign Secretary conveyed India’s deep concern at the shooting incident earlier today involving two Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz. He noted the importance that India attached to the safety of merchant shipping and mariners and recalled that Iran had earlier facilitated the safe passage of several ships bound for India. Reiterating his concern at this serious incident of firing on merchant ships, Foreign Secretary urged the Ambassador to convey India’s views to the authorities in Iran and resume at the earliest the process of facilitating India-bound ships across the Strait."

"The Ambassador of Iran undertook to convey these views to the Iranian authorities," the statement added. 

This diplomatic step underscores India's serious concerns over the safety of its vessels and crew navigating critical international sea lanes. The Strait of Hormuz remains vital for India's energy imports, and any threats to commercial shipping are viewed with utmost gravity by New Delhi.

The incident adds to ongoing challenges in the Persian Gulf region, where freedom of navigation has been a recurring point of contention. India has consistently emphasised the importance of secure sea lanes for global trade and its national interests.