India has tightened maritime security measures in and around the Strait of Hormuz following the recent firing incident involving Iranian forces. The government has issued a fresh advisory to all Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, instructing them to avoid Larak Island and to transit the strait only under directions from the Indian Navy to ensure safe passage.
The move comes after personnel from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) opened fire on two Indian vessels—Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald—on April 18, forcing them to turn back. In response, the Indian Navy has reinforced its operational presence in the region and is actively coordinating the movement of Indian ships waiting to cross the strait.
According to officials, at least 10 Indian vessels have already crossed safely, including the tanker Desh Garima, which transited the strait on the same day as the firing incident. After crossing, the vessel is now being escorted by the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea and is expected to reach Mumbai shortly. Meanwhile, around 14 Indian ships remain in the Persian Gulf, awaiting clearance for transit.
Larak Island is located at one of the narrowest points of the Strait of Hormuz and is strategically significant due to its proximity to Iran’s oil infrastructure. The surrounding waters are heavily monitored and defended, with Iranian military installations, radar systems, and fast-attack boats capable of targeting vessels. Given these risks, India has advised ships to avoid this zone entirely.
The Strait of Hormuz itself is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, historically carrying nearly 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. Any disruption in this region has immediate global economic and energy implications. The ongoing tensions linked to the broader US-Iran conflict have already led to restricted movement and heightened risks for commercial shipping.
To manage the situation, the Indian Navy has deployed at least seven warships in and around the Persian Gulf region. These vessels are maintaining continuous communication with Indian merchant ships and are providing escort services once they safely exit the strait into the Arabian Sea.
In parallel, the Indian government is also engaging diplomatically with Iran and other stakeholders to ensure safe and uninterrupted passage for its vessels. However, with the security environment remaining volatile, all ship movements through the Strait of Hormuz are now being closely regulated and coordinated by naval authorities.
