New Delhi, April 19: Tensions are escalating regarding the transit of ships in the Strait of Hormuz. A recent incident involving gunfire from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on two Indian-flagged vessels has drawn criticism from Baloch human rights activist Meer Yaar Baloch.
On the social media platform X, Meer Yaar Baloch stated, “The Balochistan Republic strongly condemns the shooting incident where the Iranian Navy forced two Indian ships westward from the Strait of Hormuz. The use of force against commercial shipping, particularly the Indian-flagged VLCC supertanker, indicates a dangerous escalation. This poses a threat to regional stability and the security of essential global trade routes. At the time of the incident, the Indian-flagged supertanker was carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil.”
The Baloch human rights activist also referenced the recent visit of Pakistan’s General Asim Munir to Iran, expressing concern over the timing of the incident. “This event is particularly alarming as it occurred shortly after Asim Munir’s return from Tehran. Such incidents raise serious concerns about Pakistan’s role in escalating maritime tensions while it positions itself as a mediator for peace and a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran,” he remarked.
Following the gunfire incident involving Indian-flagged ships, Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fatehali, was summoned for a meeting with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
During the meeting, India expressed deep concern over the incident, although reports indicate that the tanker and crew are safe. A statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday evening confirmed that the Iranian ambassador was called in for discussions. The Foreign Secretary conveyed India’s serious concerns regarding the incident in Hormuz.
The statement further emphasized India’s commitment to the safety of commercial vessels and sailors, recalling that Iran has previously provided safe passage for many ships heading to India.
Reiterating concerns over the serious incident involving gunfire on commercial vessels, the Foreign Secretary urged the ambassador to communicate India’s perspective to Iranian officials and expedite the resumption of processes facilitating the passage of ships coming to India through the Strait.
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