India has stepped up surveillance and anti-drone preparedness after warnings of possible drone attacks on strategic installations near land and maritime borders.

New Delhi, June 16: Security agencies across India have intensified protective measures at critical infrastructure and strategic locations following a government alert regarding potential drone threats along the country's land and coastal borders.

The warning, issued through the Maritime Security Division of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has prompted the deployment and evaluation of anti-drone systems at several sensitive sites. Authorities are focusing on installations located near border regions and coastal assets considered vital to national security.

Warning Triggers Action

According to officials familiar with the development, the alert highlighted the growing threat posed by hostile drones and stressed the need for immediate protective measures.

The communication called for urgent steps to safeguard key facilities, particularly those situated near international borders. It noted that hostile unmanned aerial systems have the potential to disrupt operations at critical infrastructure and strategic establishments.

The advisory comes at a time when drone warfare and cross-border aerial threats have become increasingly prominent in regional and global security discussions.

Anti-Drone Systems Planned

Following the alert, multiple agencies have accelerated efforts to identify and deploy suitable anti-drone technologies.

Sources indicated that installations considered vulnerable are being assessed for surveillance upgrades and electronic countermeasure systems capable of detecting, tracking and neutralising unauthorized drones.

The focus remains on creating layered protection around facilities that could be targeted by hostile aerial platforms.

BSF Leading Evaluation

The Ministry of Home Affairs has constituted a specialised committee under the supervision of the Border Security Force (BSF) to evaluate available anti-drone technologies.

The committee has been tasked with testing and recommending systems best suited for India's operational requirements. Initial trials have reportedly begun in border areas of Punjab, where security agencies have been monitoring drone-related activities for several years.

Officials said the outcome of these evaluations will guide future procurement and deployment decisions.

Multi-Agency Coordination

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has also formed a dedicated team to assess security requirements at important locations.

The team includes representatives from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Airports Authority of India (AAI) and BSF. Officials involved in the exercise are conducting inspections at key sites across the country to determine vulnerability levels and recommend appropriate counter-drone solutions.

A final decision on deployment locations is expected after technical assessments are completed and approved by the Home Ministry.

Tamil Nadu Port Sets Example

One of the most significant developments in India's anti-drone strategy has been the installation of an advanced anti-drone system at the port facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.

The system was commissioned earlier this year at the V.O. Chidambaranar Port, making it the first Indian port to adopt such technology for operational security. Developed in partnership with government-owned Central Electronics Limited, the system combines radar and radio-frequency technologies to identify, track and disable hostile drones.

Officials say the platform provides 360-degree surveillance coverage and has been designed specifically for maritime environments.

Lessons From Operation Sindoor

The renewed focus on anti-drone preparedness follows security experiences from Operation Sindoor in May 2025, when Indian air defence systems responded to aerial threats during military tensions with Pakistan.

Defence sources have previously stated that radar networks and air defence assets successfully intercepted hostile drones and aerial platforms during the operation. The episode reinforced concerns about the growing role of drones in modern conflict and highlighted the need for stronger protective infrastructure.

As drone technology becomes more accessible and sophisticated, security planners are increasingly treating counter-drone capabilities as a critical component of national defence.

118.98 kg found on Cyprus-flagged cargo ship 'Europe'; African nationals detained, one crewman jumped overboard

A joint operation by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard on Tuesday led to the seizure of 118.98 kg of cocaine—valued at about ₹1,150 crore—from a Cyprus-flagged cargo vessel, ‘Europe’, anchored off Mundra in Kutch district, officials said.

Seizure at outer anchorage

Acting on specific intelligence, the teams intercepted the ship at the outer anchorage of Mundra Port late on Monday night, according to sources familiar with the probe. As enforcement vessels approached, crew members are reported to have thrown heavy bags overboard. Divers later recovered five floating bags comprising 115 packets of the narcotic, officials said. Four Apple AirTags and two satellite communication devices were also recovered from the vessel.

Crew and suspects

Gujarat ATS officials arrested a Tanzanian crew member, identified as Juma Nasir Omar, from the ship. Omar is reported to have admitted placing the consignment in the engine room in November 2025, according to investigators, saying he acted on the instructions of an overseas handler. A second Tanzanian crew member, named by sources as Ngingite Nassoro Jumanne, jumped into the sea during the raid and a marine search operation is underway.

Separately, the ATS said two men believed to be the intended receivers of the consignment were detained in Delhi during coordinated raids. They have been identified as Kelvin Chukwuma, a Nigerian national, and Byaruhanga James, a Ugandan national. Both are being transferred to Gujarat for questioning and formal charges, officials added.

Route and origin

Preliminary probe indicates the consignment originated in Brazil and moved through a circuitous route that included Mexico, the United States and Karachi before arriving off the Gujarat coast, investigators said. Officials recovered tracking devices and satellite equipment hidden in the steering room, which they said suggests an organised, transnational smuggling chain.

Quantity discrepancy, ongoing searches

Initial intelligence put the quantity at roughly 150 kg, but only 118.98 kg was recovered, prompting authorities to suspect some packets were deliberately discarded during the interception. Joint search-and-recovery sorties by the ATS, Coast Guard and local marine units continue in the adjacent waters to locate any remaining contraband, an official said late evening.

Legal action and probes

A criminal case under relevant narcotics laws has been registered at Mundra police station, and the ATS has taken the lead in the investigation. “We are coordinating with central agencies and international partners to trace the supply chain and handlers,” a senior ATS officer said on condition of anonymity. The National Investigation Agency and customs officials have been informed, sources added.

Local context and impact

Mundra, one of India’s busiest private ports, has seen increased maritime traffic in recent years, which officials say raises the challenge of policing sophisticated smuggling attempts. The seizure is the latest in a series of high-profile drug intercepts along the Gujarat coast that authorities credit to improved intelligence-sharing and stepped-up maritime patrolling.

Reactions from authorities

The Indian Coast Guard described the operation as a coordinated maritime enforcement action that prevented a major narcotics consignment from entering the domestic distribution chain. Gujarat police said the arrests and recoveries were the result of sustained intelligence inputs and targeted action under anti-drug initiatives launched in the state.

What happens next

Investigators will focus on interrogations, forensic analysis of recovered devices and phone records, and international liaison to identify suppliers and handlers. The detained suspects are expected to be produced before a magistrate after medical evaluation and procedural formalities. Meanwhile, marine teams continue to comb the waters near the anchorage for any discarded material.

Related developments

The seizure follows other recent drug busts in Gujarat, including a raid in Vapi that uncovered an alleged MD (mephedrone) manufacturing unit. Authorities say such operations are part of a broader crack-down on organised narcotics networks affecting the state and neighbouring regions.

The Quad foreign ministers’ meeting concluded in the national capital on Tuesday with a strong emphasis on deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region amid growing maritime and economic challenges. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, along with his counterparts from the US, Japan, and Australia, reviewed progress on multiple fronts including supply chain resilience and regional stability.

Key Outcomes from the Meeting

The ministers announced several concrete initiatives that signal the grouping’s shift towards action-oriented collaboration. A major highlight was the launch of the Quad Critical Minerals Framework, aimed at boosting investment in mining, processing, recycling, and building resilient supply chains for critical minerals and rare earth elements.

In a significant bilateral development, India and the United States signed a framework agreement to secure supplies of critical minerals. Officials described the pact as a step towards strengthening strategic and economic ties between the two countries.

Focus on Energy and Maritime Security

Energy security emerged as another key area of convergence. The Quad nations agreed to establish a Fuel Security Forum and expand regional energy cooperation to reduce vulnerabilities in the Indo-Pacific. 

On the maritime front, the grouping decided to enhance surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean and broader Indo-Pacific through greater sharing of satellite data. This initiative is expected to help combat illegal fishing, smuggling, and support humanitarian and disaster relief operations. 

The ministers also announced the “Ports of the Future” project in Fiji, which aims to strengthen port infrastructure and improve connectivity across island nations in the region.

Jaishankar Highlights Regional Challenges

According to officials, Jaishankar raised concerns over growing challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including maritime security and disruptions in global supply chains. He also stressed the need for zero tolerance against terrorism. Rising tensions in West Asia and the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation figured prominently in the discussions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who concluded his India visit after the meeting, emphasised that the Quad is evolving from a dialogue platform into an action-driven partnership. “We are beginning to do that very aggressively and very impressively,” he said, noting the group’s relevance amid ongoing global crises.

Rubio specifically called for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open without restrictions, reflecting broader concerns over energy routes.

Japan and Australia Back Stronger Cooperation

Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi described the meeting as sending a “firm message” on maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Australia’s Penny Wong highlighted energy security concerns and reiterated support for the freedom of choice of Indo-Pacific nations.

The meeting comes at a time when the Quad is navigating some underlying strains. The expected 2025 leaders’ summit in India was delayed amid reported differences between Washington and New Delhi, including trade tariffs and other bilateral issues. However, sources said the foreign ministers’ engagement helped reinforce commitment to the forum.

Significance for Regional Stability

Analysts view these outcomes as an attempt to build tangible cooperation in critical areas like technology, minerals, and maritime domain awareness. The initiatives are expected to benefit smaller nations in the Indo-Pacific by improving resilience against economic coercion and security threats.

Local diplomatic circles in Delhi described the meeting as productive, coming shortly after bilateral engagements. Rubio, accompanied by his wife Janet D. Rubio, also visited key sites in the city before departing for Armenia.

As global attention remains fixed on West Asia and other hotspots, the Quad’s focus on practical deliverables — from critical minerals to port development — reflects an effort to translate shared strategic interests into measurable progress.

The next major Quad engagement is expected later this year, with Australia slated to host the leaders’ summit towards the end of 2026.

Trump Says Iran Talks in 'Final Stages' as Tehran Defines Hormuz Boundaries, Mandates Vessel Permits

US President Donald Trump has said negotiations with Iran are in their "final stages", even as Tehran moved to assert tighter control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz by defining its supervisory boundaries and mandating permits for all vessels passing through the waterway.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump said he was willing to give diplomacy "one shot" but warned that Washington could take "nasty" action if talks fail. "Ideally I'd like to see few people killed, as opposed to a lot," he said, adding that the situation was "right on the borderline."

Warning from Washington

The US President's comments come weeks after a ceasefire paused the US-Iran conflict. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has delivered a blunt ultimatum to Tehran's leadership, though Trump suggested Washington could wait a few days to "get the right answers" from Iranian officials.

Trump also claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "will do whatever I want him to do," signalling tight US control over its ally's posture in the ongoing tensions.

Tehran defines Hormuz boundaries

In a move that could escalate maritime tensions, Iran's newly-launched Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has formally defined the management supervision area of the Strait of Hormuz. According to a post on X, the supervision area stretches from the line connecting Kuh Mobarak in Iran and the south of Fujairah in the UAE in the east, to the line connecting the end of Qeshm Island in Iran and Umm al-Qaiwain in the UAE in the west.

The management body has made it clear that "frequencies in this range for passing through the Strait of Hormuz require coordination with the Persian Gulf Waterway Management and a permit from this entity."

Economic shockwaves widen

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has already disrupted more than 20 per cent of global fuel supplies, and the economic fallout is being felt far beyond West Asia. In Kenya, deadly protests over soaring fuel prices have claimed at least four lives so far, with demonstrators taking to the streets across the East African nation as petrol and diesel costs have surged.

Sri Lanka's tea industry is also under mounting pressure. Tea workers in the central hill region say rising living costs are making survival increasingly difficult. "We don't know whether we can cope. If this war continues, many people will face hardship," tea estate worker Jacintha Malar told Reuters from Hatton.

Saudi Arabia turns to fuel oil

Saudi Arabia is expected to rely more heavily on fuel oil to meet soaring summer electricity demand after disruptions linked to the Iran conflict reduced natural gas supplies. The kingdom has reportedly increased imports of fuel oil for power generation as extreme summer heat pushes up air-conditioning use. Saudi Aramco boosted fuel oil imports to around 1.7 million tonnes in April, an 86 per cent increase compared with the same period last year, according to analysts cited by Reuters.

Military posturing in Tehran

As threats of renewed conflict persist, Iran has intensified public displays of military strength in the capital. Members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are now frequently seen training civilians to use Kalashnikov-style assault rifles, while military parades featuring armoured vehicles have become increasingly common. A ballistic missile similar to those used in recent attacks on Israel was showcased during a mass wedding ceremony in Tehran.

Iran has also claimed it possesses advanced domestically developed weapons that have not yet been combat-tested. Meanwhile, officials confirmed that Tehran is "reviewing" the US response to its latest proposal, with Pakistan acting as mediator for message exchanges between the two sides.

Iran Plans To Enveil Hormuz Toll Plan; Trump Warns Of 'Very Bad Time' If Peace Talks Fail

A unilateral transit fee mechanism for the critical Strait of Hormuz is being finalized by Tehran to charge non-enemy commercial vessels, sparking sharp warnings from US President Donald Trump as West Asia negotiations remain deadlocked.

In a major escalation that threatens to reshape global maritime trade, Tehran has announced it will shortly introduce a unilateral regulatory and toll framework for the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The proposed maritime traffic mechanism will explicitly restrict passage to countries and commercial vessels that actively cooperate with Iran, while shutting out nations deemed hostile.

The development has drawn a sharp response from Washington. Speaking to a French broadcaster, US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Tehran, stating that Iran would face a “very bad time” if a comprehensive peace agreement is not reached soon to end the 78-day-old conflict.

New Maritime Toll Rules Finalized

According to senior Iranian officials, the draft legislation defining this new legal framework has already been finalized by parliamentary bodies. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, confirmed that the upcoming system is designed to assert Iran’s national sovereignty while supposedly safeguarding international trade security.

"Iran has prepared a professional mechanism to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz along a designated route," Azizi stated. "In this process, only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran will benefit from it. The necessary fees will be collected for the specialized services provided."

Azizi explicitly added that the strategic waterway would remain entirely closed to operators involved in what he termed the Western-backed "freedom project."

Warning Dispatched To Gulf Neighbors

The unilateral move has already sent shockwaves through the Gulf region. Ground-level cues from the shipping industry suggest that parts of the strait have practically become a "parking lot for ships," with scores of international vessels stranded or forced to seek alternative routes.

Simultaneously, Tehran has intensified its diplomatic rhetoric against regional neighbors. Mohammad Mokhbar, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, issued a direct warning to the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait. Mokhbar accused both nations of allowing their territories to be utilized by Western adversaries, cautioning that while Tehran has shown restraint so far, its patience is running out.

Trump Issues Stern Negotiation Warning

The introduction of the Hormuz toll mechanism comes at a time when direct negotiations between Washington and Tehran are heavily deadlocked over the status of enriched nuclear materials.

In a telephone interview with French broadcaster BFMTV, President Trump emphasized that it is in Iran’s best interest to formalize a peace deal rapidly. While acknowledging that Tehran has shown some intent to negotiate, Trump noted that his patience is ending.

Strait of Hormuz Status:

90% Near-Closure Enforcement

78 Commercial ships redirected by US CENTCOM blockade.

4 Vessels disabled for non-compliance.

The US administration has simultaneously tightened economic pressure. Over the weekend, the US Treasury allowed a critical sanctions waiver on Russian seaborne oil to expire. The waiver had initially been granted to ease the global oil supply crunch triggered when the conflict first began on February 28, but Washington's refusal to extend it signals a shift toward total economic enforcement.

Ground Reality And Regional Spillover

On the ground, the regional security situation remains highly volatile despite high-level diplomatic interventions. While US-mediated talks successfully secured a 45-day extension to the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, artillery shelling and air strikes continue to hit border villages in southern Lebanon.

In Tehran, domestic infrastructure has taken a severe beating from weeks of combined US-Israeli air operations. Local authorities claim massive destruction to residential property, citing significant civilian casualties and damage to over 51,000 homes.

Meanwhile, external mediators are scrambling to find a breakthrough. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived on an unannounced visit to Tehran this weekend to hold quiet consultations with Iranian leaders, attempting to salvage the backchannel peace proposals that stalled during earlier rounds in Islamabad

Escalating Global Economic Fallout

The prolonged closure and the proposed Hormuz toll plan have triggered severe economic anxieties worldwide. During a United Nations briefing, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Economic and Social Council, Parvathaneni Harish, highlighted the cascading impact of the West Asia crisis on global energy and fertilizer security, calling for immediate structural cooperation.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, however, placed the blame squarely on Western capital cities. In a public statement, Araghchi asserted that ordinary American households are now paying the price for Washington’s "war of choice," pointing to sharp spikes in global fuel prices and domestic inflation since the February blockade disrupted one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Future Steps And Legislative Votes

The focus now shifts to the Iranian Parliament, where the formal "deterrent law" authorizing the toll collections is expected to be passed swiftly once the house resumes its session.

International reactions have been swift and critical. Italy and other European maritime nations have already rejected the proposed mechanism, demanding that freedom of navigation be restored without discriminatory transit fees. Whether the upcoming toll regime will force a diplomatic compromise or trigger a direct naval confrontation in the Gulf remains the critical question over the next 48 hours.

Gujarat Cargo Ship Sinks in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

MSV Haji Ali hit near Oman coast, all crew rescued

In the latest incident to heighten concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a Gujarat-owned cargo ship sank after being struck by what initial reports described as a drone or missile-like projectile on May 13. The vessel, identified as the MSV Haji Ali, was en route from Berbera Port in Somalia to Sharjah when the attack occurred in Omani waters.

Oman Coast Guard teams responded swiftly and rescued all 14 crew members safely despite the ship catching fire after the strike. The vessel became stranded off the Omani coast around 3:30 am, according to ship owner Sultan Ahmed Ansar, a resident of Dwarka in Gujarat.

This marks yet another setback for Indian-linked shipping in the region as the ongoing Iran-related conflict, referred to in Israeli operations as “Operation Roaring Lion,” continues to disrupt vital sea lanes. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil and cargo traffic, with multiple vessels already facing threats in recent weeks.

Owner confirms route and timeline

Speaking to local media, Ansar said the Haji Ali was engaged in routine cargo movement when the incident occurred. Details of the exact weapon used are still under investigation, but sources familiar with the matter pointed to heightened activity by regional actors in the area. No group has immediately claimed responsibility.

Indian authorities are monitoring the situation closely. Similar to the safe passage provided to the India-bound LPG tanker MV Sunshine earlier on May 14, naval and maritime agencies have been coordinating security for Indian-flagged or owned vessels traversing the Gulf. The Haji Ali incident, however, ended differently with the loss of the ship.

Netanyahu’s secret UAE visit sparks diplomatic row

Parallel to the maritime incident, a political controversy erupted over reports of a secret visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the United Arab Emirates. Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the visit took place during the ongoing operation, but the UAE has denied the claims, creating confusion and diplomatic friction between the two sides.

The visit, if confirmed independently, comes at a sensitive time when backchannel engagements and public posturing often shape narratives in West Asian geopolitics. Analysts suggest such high-level movements could signal efforts to coordinate on security matters amid the broader conflict involving Iran.

Iranian assertions and regional fallout

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, currently in New Delhi for a BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, claimed that Iranian security forces had prior information about developments in the region. His remarks added to the war of words as multiple actors trade allegations.

Meanwhile, US officials have continued to defend actions against Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Iran’s missile capabilities were intended to shield a future nuclear breakout, a charge Tehran has consistently denied. US President Donald Trump, ahead of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, warned that Iran must compromise or face consequences, while noting discussions on the Hormuz crisis alongside trade issues.

Economic and strategic implications

The sinking of the Haji Ali and repeated incidents in the Strait of Hormuz have raised insurance costs and forced shipping companies to reassess routes. For India, which relies heavily on energy imports through the Gulf, any prolonged disruption poses risks to fuel security and trade.

Gujarat, with its strong maritime connections and ports like Kandla and Mundra, has deep stakes in the region. Families of seafarers, many hailing from coastal districts such as Dwarka, often bear the human cost of these conflicts.

On the diplomatic front, South Korean officials blamed Iran for a separate attack on one of their cargo ships, while operations to clear unexploded ordnance continue in Iranian areas. Hezbollah also reported fresh attacks on Israeli positions in southern Lebanon, adding layers to the multi-front tensions.

Safe passages continue amid uncertainty

Despite the risks, several vessels including a Chinese supertanker carrying two million barrels of crude have managed to transit the strait. Indian agencies continue to extend support to merchant ships, as seen with the MV Sunshine.

As the conflict enters a critical phase, with the US seeking additional defence funding and regional players adjusting positions, the safety of commercial shipping remains a pressing concern. Observers will be watching how Oman, India, and other stakeholders coordinate to secure these vital waters in the coming days.

The incident involving the Gujarat ship once again underscores the fragile balance in one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.

Trump says ceasefire holds with Iran despite US warship attacks, Chinese tanker hit in Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has indicated that the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect despite overnight clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran confirmed a Chinese oil tanker came under attack with no casualties reported among crew members aboard.

The US military carried out retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets on Thursday, targeting sites it said were responsible for attacking American naval destroyers in what Pentagon officials described as unprovoked hostilities by Tehran.

Trump said US forces inflicted “significant damage” on Iranian positions after three American destroyers came under missile and drone fire, while also signalling he remained open to negotiations with the Iranian leadership.

No damage to US vessels

“There was no damage to the three destroyers, but major damage was dealt to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that drones fell “like a butterfly dropping to its grave.”

He warned that Washington would respond “a lot more violently” in future if Tehran does not quickly agree to a deal. The President described the strikes as a “love tap”, adding that “the ceasefire is going. It’s in effect.”

Iran’s top joint military command, however, accused Washington of violating the ceasefire by targeting an Iranian oil tanker and another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz, and by striking civilian areas.

Chinese vessel attacked

China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that a Chinese oil tanker was attacked in the strait, with Chinese citizens on board. No crew members were reported injured in that incident, though Beijing expressed deep concern over the escalating tension.

Al Jazeera reported that China has announced an increase in retail petrol and diesel prices from May 9, with petrol rising by 320 yuan (approximately ₹4,440) per metric ton and diesel by 310 yuan (roughly ₹4,302) per metric ton.

1,500 ships stranded

The humanitarian impact continues to grow. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the UN Maritime Agency (IMO), stated that approximately 1,500 ships are now stranded in the Strait of Hormuz region, with nearly 20,000 sailors trapped alongside them.

Indian sailors stranded near Hormuz have told media outlets they are living in fear as the conflict intensifies. “We’ve seen war, missiles, everything. We’re mentally exhausted,” Al Jazeera quoted an Indian sailor stranded at an Iranian port for nearly 10 weeks as saying. The sailor said he was surviving on basic food supplies including potatoes, onions, tomatoes and bread.

India in touch with Iran

The Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi remains in touch with Iranian authorities over the safe passage of Indian vessels. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that 11 Indian ships have returned so far, while 13 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the region.

“We are following all developments in West Asia. Any attack on civilian infrastructure or civilians is totally unacceptable to us,” Jaiswal said.

Oil prices have jumped following the clashes, with Brent crude futures rising as much as 7.5 percent during Thursday’s volatile trading session before easing to $101.12 per barrel on Friday morning.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has seized a container vessel headed to India while it was transiting through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, according to official statements and maritime reports. The ship, identified as Epaminondas and flying the Liberian flag, was reportedly on its way to Gujarat’s Mundra Port when it was intercepted.

The development has triggered concern across maritime and diplomatic circles, given the sensitivity of the region and its importance for global trade routes.

Allegations by Iran

Iranian authorities alleged that the vessel attempted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without proper authorisation. Officials further claimed that the ship’s navigation system had been tampered with, posing a potential threat to maritime safety in the congested waterway.

According to Iranian naval sources, such actions violate established maritime protocols and justify enforcement action under regional security guidelines.

IRGC Takes Control

The IRGC reportedly carried out the interception operation and took control of the vessel before escorting it toward Iranian territorial waters. The exact status of the crew and cargo remains unclear, though no casualties have been reported so far.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but vital passage linking the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea, handles a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments, making any disruption a matter of international concern.

Other Vessels Targeted

In a related development, Iranian forces also reportedly seized another vessel named Francesca, allegedly linked to Israeli interests. Additionally, a third ship, identified as Euphoria, came under attack near the coast of Oman and sustained damage.

These incidents point to a broader pattern of maritime tensions in the region, especially involving vessels with perceived geopolitical affiliations.

Earlier Reports of Attacks

Earlier reports had indicated that one of the vessels in the area came under fire, while another suffered damage in an attack off the Omani coast. While details remain limited, sources indicated that these incidents are under investigation by maritime security agencies.

Shipping companies operating in the region have been advised to exercise caution and adhere strictly to navigation protocols.

Strategic and Trade Impact

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global energy supplies and commercial shipping. Any disruption in this corridor can impact oil prices, shipping insurance costs, and trade logistics, including shipments bound for India.

India, which relies heavily on energy imports passing through this route, is closely monitoring the situation. The seizure of a ship bound for an Indian port adds to the urgency of diplomatic engagement.

What Lies Ahead

Authorities in India have yet to issue a detailed official response, but sources indicated that diplomatic channels are likely being activated to seek clarity and ensure the safety of the vessel and its crew.

Maritime experts believe that continued tensions in the region could lead to tighter security protocols and possible rerouting of vessels, impacting shipping timelines and costs.

India may play role in US-Iran peace efforts, says Rajnath Singh

New Delhi signals readiness for larger diplomatic engagement as West Asia faces critical juncture

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has indicated that India could play a constructive role in future peace efforts between the United States and Iran. Speaking in Berlin, the minister said such a possibility cannot be ruled out as the West Asia crisis continues to impact global stability.

Strategic balancing act

Singh noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already appealed to both sides to end the conflict. New Delhi has maintained a “balanced approach” in all diplomatic engagements throughout the war. The defence minister added that India’s role in peace initiatives may grow over time. This expansion, he clarified, would depend entirely on global circumstances and regional requirements.

Fresh firing in Hormuz

The statement came shortly after fresh escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired upon a container ship early Wednesday. The incident occurred 15 nautical miles northeast of Oman. A Guard gunboat reportedly did not issue any radio warning before opening fire. The vessel sustained heavy damage to its bridge, though all crew members remained safe.

Trump extends ceasefire

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the existing ceasefire with Iran. Trump claimed Tehran is now “starving for cash” and losing approximately $500 million daily due to the naval blockade. He added that Iranian military and police personnel are not receiving salaries. The extension came at the request of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to Trump.

Iranian conditions for talks

Tehran has linked any fresh negotiations to the lifting of US port restrictions. Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir-Saeid Iravani stated that the United States must halt what he called “violation of the ceasefire” before any new round. “As soon as they lift the blockade, the next round will be held in Islamabad,” Iravani told Iranian media. He added that Iran is prepared for any scenario, political or military.

Chinese warning on escalation

China has warned that West Asia stands at a “very critical juncture.” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the region could either move toward peace or slip back into full-scale conflict. Beijing urged all efforts to be made to prevent a resumption of hostilities. This warning followed reports of a second ship coming under attack in the same waters shortly after the first incident.

What lies ahead

Military planners from nearly 30 countries are now meeting in London to flesh out details of a potential Hormuz security mission. Britain and France are leading the two-day gathering at a UK command centre. The plan remains dependent on a sustainable ceasefire holding between Washington and Tehran. For India, officials suggested that any formal peace role would likely emerge only after the second round of Islamabad talks concludes. As an English News Portal India update confirmed, New Delhi is watching the situation closely while ensuring safe passage for its own tankers through the conflict zone.

UK refuses to join US naval blockade of Iran; PM Starmer says Britain won’t be ‘dragged’ into war

Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarifies the UK's stance on the US blockade of Iran, focusing on maritime security and diplomatic de-escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a significant move that highlights a growing tactical rift between trans-Atlantic allies, United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday officially declined to join the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz recently announced by US President Donald Trump.

Speaking to BBC Radio, Starmer stated that while the UK remains committed to regional stability, it will not participate in the aggressive maritime enforcement initiated by Washington. "We are not supporting the blockade," Starmer said, adding firmly that the UK "is not getting dragged in" to a potential full-scale war with Iran.

Starmer clarifies UK position

The Prime Minister’s remarks follow a sharp escalation in tensions after the US declared a blockade on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports. According to officials, the UK’s primary focus remains on protecting commercial navigation rather than participating in offensive military maneuvers.

Despite the refusal to join the blockade, Britain will maintain its existing naval presence in the region. This includes specialized operations such as minesweeping and anti-drone activities intended to safeguard merchant vessels.

Maritime security remains priority

A UK government spokesperson emphasized that maintaining the free flow of shipping through the strategic waterway is vital for the global economy. The spokesperson noted that any prolonged disruption would directly impact the domestic cost of living in Britain.

The British government also voiced strong opposition to the imposition of tolls or transit fees on vessels. This follows reports that Tehran has begun charging ships for passage through the Strait, a move London views as a violation of international maritime laws.

Failed Islamabad peace talks

The US decision to enforce a blockade comes in the wake of collapsed diplomatic efforts in Pakistan. High-level peace talks in Islamabad between US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian representatives ended Sunday without a breakthrough.

According to reports, the primary sticking point remains Iran’s refusal to provide long-term guarantees regarding its nuclear program. Following the failure of these negotiations, US Central Command confirmed that American forces would begin interdicting vessels linked to Iranian trade.

Impact on oil prices

The escalation has already sent shockwaves through the global energy market. Following President Trump's announcement, Brent crude prices surged past $100 per barrel on Monday, marking a sharp increase that threatens global inflationary stability.

The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as the world’s most critical oil chokepoint, with approximately 20% of the world's total oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments passing through its narrow waters daily.

Diplomatic push for de-escalation

Prime Minister Starmer has been in active contact with European allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron, to form a broader coalition. This group intends to focus on "freedom of navigation" rather than military escalation against Iranian sovereignty.

While the UK was not a direct party to the failed Islamabad negotiations, it continues to advocate for a diplomatic "off-ramp." Sources indicated that London is prioritizing the reopening of the Strait to stabilize energy supplies and prevent a wider regional conflagration.

Future of regional stability

As the US blockade goes into effect, the international community remains on high alert for potential Iranian retaliation. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has already warned of a "forceful response" to any military interference with its maritime territory.

Missiles overhead, mines below: How Indian LPG tanker survived Hormuz blockade

Indian-flagged vessel Pine Gas navigates high-risk ‘Larak route’ under Navy protection as regional conflict traps 3,200 ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a high-stakes maritime breakout, the Indian-flagged LPG tanker Pine Gas has successfully navigated the volatile Strait of Hormuz, escaping a regional blockade that has crippled global energy lanes. The vessel, carrying critical fuel supplies for India, arrived in safe waters this week after a harrowing three-week ordeal marked by daily aerial combat and the threat of sea mines.

The transit comes at a time when the region is reeling from the February 28 joint strikes by the US and Israel on Iran. According to latest news today, the Pine Gas was forced to adopt an unconventional "northern route" past Larak Island to avoid heavily mined international shipping lanes.

Crew witnessed daily combat

The ship’s 27-member Indian crew reported a "war-zone atmosphere" during their time in the Persian Gulf. Chief Officer Sohan Lal confirmed that the crew witnessed missiles and drones flying overhead on a daily basis as regional tensions escalated.

The vessel had loaded its cargo at the UAE’s Ruwais port on February 28, just as hostilities broke out. While the journey to India typically takes a week, the Pine Gas remained stranded for nearly 21 days before receiving clearance to move.

Unusual route via Larak

In a departure from standard maritime protocols, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) directed the tanker to navigate a narrow channel north of Larak Island. Sources indicated that the IRGC recommended this path because the primary Hormuz passage was reportedly littered with sea mines.

Crucially, the crew noted that the IRGC did not board the vessel, nor was any transit fee charged. This bypass was essential for the vessel's survival as standard routes became impassable for commercial traffic.

Operation Sankalp in action

The Indian Navy played a pivotal role in the rescue, providing a 20-hour continuous escort from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea. This mission falls under the long-standing Operation Sankalp, which secures sea lanes for Indian-flagged vessels.

Government updates confirmed that the Navy has intensified its presence in the region. Apart from Pine Gas, three other vessels—Shivalik, Nanda Devi, and Jag Laadki—have been safely brought back to Indian waters under naval protection.

Maritime emergency hits trade

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has officially declared the situation a "maritime emergency." Reports suggest approximately 3,200 vessels remain trapped within the Persian Gulf, unable to navigate the 33-kilometre-wide chokepoint.

The disruption is a significant blow to global energy stability. About 20% of the world’s oil and gas trade passes through the Strait, and for India, the stakes are even higher given its heavy reliance on Gulf suppliers.

India’s energy security risk

The crisis highlights a growing vulnerability in India’s energy map. In the 2024-25 period, 92% of India’s LPG imports originated from four Gulf nations: UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.

With the UAE now supplying over 40% of India's LPG, any prolonged closure of the Hormuz Strait poses a direct threat to domestic supply chains. This English News Portal India report notes that while demand has surged due to schemes like Ujjwala Yojana, domestic production remains stagnant.

Rising domestic gas demand

Data shows India imported 20.67 million tonnes of LPG in 2024-25, a 40% jump from five years ago. Meanwhile, domestic production has hovered around 12.8 million tonnes, failing to keep pace with the 330 million active gas connections across the country.

As the conflict persists, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Navy remain on high alert. This public interest story will continue to evolve as officials monitor the remaining Indian vessels still awaiting safe passage through the world’s most dangerous waterway.

Thai Cargo Ship Bound for India Struck in Strait of Hormuz; Rescue Ops Underway

In a significant escalation of maritime tensions, an India-bound Thai cargo ship was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The vessel, identified as the Mayuree Naree, was struck by unidentified projectiles while navigating the world’s most critical energy corridor.

According to Thailand’s Transport Ministry and the Royal Thai Navy, at least 20 crew members have been successfully rescued by the Royal Navy of Oman. However, an urgent search-and-rescue operation continues for three crew members who remain missing and are believed to be trapped in the vessel’s engine room.

Fire and Chaos at Sea

The Mayuree Naree, a 178-meter bulk carrier owned by Precious Shipping Pcl, had recently departed from the UAE’s Khalifa Port and was en route to Kandla Port in Gujarat, India. The attack occurred approximately 11 nautical miles north of the Omani coast.

Reports indicate that two projectiles struck the ship above the waterline, triggering a massive fire in the engine room and stern. Dramatic images released by the Royal Thai Navy showed thick columns of black smoke billowing from the freighter as life rafts drifted nearby.

A Growing Regional Crisis

This incident is not an isolated one. The Strait of Hormuz has seen a sharp spike in volatility following recent geopolitical strikes in the region. The Mayuree Naree was reportedly one of three commercial vessels targeted in the shipping lane on Wednesday morning.

Key Statistics on the Strait of Hormuz:

• Global Impact: Roughly 20% of the world's petroleum passes through this 33-kilometer-wide chink in the global supply chain.

• India’s Stake: More than 10% of India’s non-oil exports, including basmati rice and engineering goods, rely on this route.

• Energy Security: Between 17 million and 21 million barrels of oil move through these waters daily.

Expert Perspectives on Maritime Safety

Maritime security analysts suggest that the "tanker war" style of engagement is resurfacing, threatening to disrupt global trade. "The targeting of merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz serves as a direct threat to international energy security and inflation," says a simulated regional security expert. "For India, this route is a lifeline for both energy imports and food exports."

The Royal Thai Navy is currently coordinating with the Combined Maritime Forces in Bahrain and the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) to secure the area and finalize the rescue of the remaining crew.

Conclusion

As the fire on the Mayuree Naree is brought under control, the focus shifts to the safety of the three missing Thai nationals and the broader implications for Indian trade. With shipping insurance rates expected to climb, the international community is watching the Strait of Hormuz with bated breath.