Attack On Panama-Flagged Vessel With 21 Indian Crew Members
Tensions in the Middle East are rising following a serious incident in the Strait of Hormuz. The Indian Ministry of Shipping confirmed that Iranian forces fired on a Panama-flagged vessel, “Euphoria,” with 21 Indian crew members aboard. Thankfully, none of the crew members were injured in the attack, and all remain safe.
IRGC Attacks Multiple Ships In Strategic Waterway
“Euphoria” was one of three ships targeted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This attack happened amid Iran’s ongoing protests against U.S. sanctions on its shipping and its efforts to assert control over the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz sees nearly 20% of the world’s oil pass through it.
Euphoria’s Location And Other Ships Attacked
Euphoria was near Oman’s coast when the attack occurred. Additionally, two other ships were also attacked—Panama-flagged “MSC Francesca” and Liberia-registered “Epaminondas.” Notably, no Indian crew members were aboard the “Francesca.” However, the “Epaminondas” was heading to India’s Mundra Port.
Shipping Ministry Provides Updates On Crew Safety
Mukesh Mangal, the additional secretary at the Ministry of Shipping, confirmed the safety of the 21 Indian crew members on the “Euphoria.” He also clarified that a Burmese national was aboard the vessel. Following the attack, some reports suggested the ship was stranded near Iran’s coast. However, ship tracking websites later confirmed it was near Oman’s coast at the Fakkah Port and moving toward Jeddah.
Ship Tracking Becomes Challenging Amid Signals Interference
The incident also highlighted a growing issue, accurate ship tracking in the Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly difficult. This challenge stems from widespread interference with signals and attempts to display false data.
Additional Shipping Updates From The Region
Meanwhile, the “Froso K,” a Gibraltar-flagged ship carrying 55,000 metric tons of sulfur, safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz. It is now heading to India’s Paradip Port. This ship was among 15 vessels given priority passage. Additionally, an oil tanker, “Garima,” passed through the Strait on April 18 and arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Tensions Increase With More Attacks On Indian Ships
On the same day, two Indian-flagged ships, “Sunmar Herald” and “Jag Arnav,” were also targeted by IRGC boats. After the attacks, both ships were forced to turn back.
Current Indian Presence In Strait Of Hormuz
The Shipping Ministry reported that 518 Indian sailors are currently aboard Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf region. Of these, 340 are in the western part of the Strait of Hormuz, while 178 are in the Gulf of Oman. Given the current tensions, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
