London, April 18: The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Saturday that two gunboats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on a tanker.
According to a warning issued on the UKMTO website, the incident occurred approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman. The tanker’s master reported that the two IRGC gunboats approached without any VHF warning and began firing. Fortunately, there were no injuries to the tanker or its crew, and an investigation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, Iran announced on Saturday that control over the Strait of Hormuz has returned to “previous conditions.” This statement comes amid ongoing naval blockades of Iranian ports by the United States.
A spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters told the semi-official Tasnim News Agency that the waterway is now under “strict control” of Iranian armed forces and will remain so.
The spokesperson accused the U.S. of “maritime piracy,” stating that due to repeated violations of agreements, Iran has restored its control over the Strait of Hormuz. He clarified that this situation will persist until the U.S. lifts restrictions on Iranian shipping movements.
Additionally, according to Xinhua News Agency, ship tracking data revealed that around 10 vessels altered their routes while attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday.
Shipping data platform MarineTraffic indicated that these vessels turned back near Larak Island, where Iran monitors maritime activities.
Amid rising tensions, concerns are growing about the impact on shipping movements in this strategic waterway.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment