A container ship carrying 21 Indian sailors came under fire from Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz on April 22, with newly released footage showing vessels linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) surrounding the ship during the incident.

The video, released by the Federation of Seafarers’ Associations of India (FSUI), reportedly captures the moments following the attack. The footage shows broken glass and belongings scattered inside the vessel, while Iranian fast boats can be seen moving around the ship.

All 21 Indian sailors on board reportedly survived the incident after taking shelter inside the vessel during the attack.

Video Shows Iranian Boats

According to the footage, several fast boats associated with the IRGC approached the container ship. One image appears to show an armed IRGC personnel on a fast boat carrying a rocket launcher.

The video also appears to capture a projectile being fired towards the ship. The vessel's windscreen was reportedly damaged during the incident, while objects inside the ship were thrown around following the attack.

The sailors took cover inside the vessel as the confrontation unfolded.

India Tightens Sailor Deployment

The incident comes against the backdrop of growing security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz and other strategically important waterways in the Gulf region.

India had already taken steps to reduce risks to its maritime workforce. On July 16, the government stopped the fresh deployment of Indian sailors on ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Gulf until further orders.

The restriction applies to new deployment of Indian seafarers and does not directly cover Indian sailors recruited outside the country by foreign shipping companies.

Indian authorities have also advised ship owners, ship-management companies and recruitment firms to exercise greater caution while operating in the region.

Indian Sailors Killed In Region

According to the report, at least 14 Indian sailors have been killed in attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz since February 28.

The latest footage has renewed concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working on commercial vessels operating through waters affected by military tensions and attacks.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime route for global energy supplies and has remained particularly sensitive amid wider regional tensions.

Cargo Ship Hijacked Off Somalia

Separately, a cargo ship carrying six Indian nationals was reportedly hijacked off the Puntland coast of Somalia.

The Cameroon-flagged M/V LUTUF was carrying 10 people, including six Indians, a Turkish national, a Georgian national and two Serbian security personnel. The vessel was reportedly seized on August 17 near Maraya in Somalia's Eyl district before being taken towards the Nugaal coast.

Somali officials said eight pirates took control of the vessel. Turkish vessels subsequently reached the area and began monitoring the ship using helicopters and drones.

An airstrike later killed four people and injured two others after a small boat approached the vessel. However, the identity of those targeted and their connection with the hijacking remained unclear.

The current status of the vessel and all members of its crew was also not immediately clear.

Houthi Attack Kills Pakistani Sailors

Maritime security concerns have also affected other South Asian seafarers.

The bodies of two Pakistani sailors killed in a Houthi attack reached Karachi on Thursday. Six other Pakistani sailors who were injured in the incident also returned safely to Pakistan.

The attack took place on August 11 against the Tanzanian-flagged Tihama in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Three Pakistani sailors and one Indonesian sailor were reported killed.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned the attack and stressed the need to ensure the safety of seafarers operating in dangerous maritime zones.

Rising Concern Over Maritime Safety

The incidents involving Indian, Pakistani and other international crews highlight the growing risks faced by commercial shipping personnel operating through conflict-affected and strategically important waterways.

For India, the security of its large seafaring workforce has become a particular concern as commercial vessels continue to navigate the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.

The release of the Hormuz attack footage is likely to add to calls for stronger security measures for Indian sailors and greater coordination between shipping companies and government agencies.

Ukraine has proposed a temporary halt to attacks on civilian shipping and port infrastructure in the Black Sea, seeking to reduce growing risks to commercial vessels and agricultural exports as strikes involving Russian and Ukrainian targets intensify.

Kyiv conveyed the proposal to Moscow through a third party and is awaiting a response, according to a source familiar with the matter cited by Reuters.

The initiative comes amid increasing attacks on ships and port facilities, raising fresh concerns about the security of a crucial route for global agricultural trade. Russia and Ukraine are both major suppliers to international food markets and have repeatedly accused each other of escalating attacks involving commercial and agricultural shipping.

Ukraine Seeks Protection for Black Sea Shipping

The proposed truce is aimed at protecting civilian vessels and port infrastructure from further attacks while maintaining the movement of agricultural commodities.

Ukraine has increasingly relied on alternative shipping routes as international shipowners have reduced or suspended calls at ports in the Odesa region following attacks on foreign-flagged vessels and port facilities, according to Ukrainian officials and shipping sources.

The disruption comes at a sensitive time for Ukraine's agricultural sector, which depends heavily on access to Black Sea and Danube routes to export grain and other commodities.

Russia Says No Formal Proposal Received

The proposal has yet to receive a formal response from Moscow.

Russian officials have previously said that they had heard calls for various moratoriums and ceasefires through different channels but had not received formal proposals.

The Russian position could determine whether the latest Ukrainian initiative develops into a temporary arrangement for protecting commercial shipping.

Turkey has also been involved in diplomatic efforts surrounding Black Sea security. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that a proposal had been conveyed to Russia and Ukraine for both sides to declare a moratorium on attacks in the Black Sea.

Grain Exports Under Pressure

The escalating security situation is already affecting agricultural trade.

Ukraine's grain exports have reportedly fallen sharply in August, with the country's agricultural sector warning that prolonged disruption could have serious consequences for the wider economy.

The Black Sea is particularly important for Ukraine because it provides access to international markets for wheat, corn and other agricultural commodities.

Any sustained reduction in exports could also affect global supply chains and food prices, particularly in countries that depend on Black Sea agricultural products.

Strike Hits Izmail Port

The latest developments came after Russia struck Izmail, Ukraine's largest grain export port on the Danube, on Thursday.

Local authorities said the overnight attack damaged port infrastructure and caused a fire. Power supplies in parts of the southeastern area of the city were also affected.

Izmail, located near the Romanian border in Ukraine's Odesa region, is a major export hub for grain and other commodities. The port has become increasingly important as Ukraine seeks alternatives to traditional Black Sea shipping routes.

The attack has added to concerns among traders and shipping companies about the safety of Ukrainian export infrastructure.

Global Food Supply Concerns

The renewed attacks are being closely watched by agricultural markets because Russia and Ukraine remain important suppliers to global food markets.

European wheat prices reacted to the news of Ukraine's proposal, with September wheat contracts on Euronext turning lower after earlier gains.

For Ukraine, protecting maritime trade is also critical to maintaining agricultural revenues and supporting the country's economy during the ongoing war.

A temporary Black Sea truce could therefore provide some relief to shipping companies and exporters, but its success would depend on both sides agreeing to the terms and maintaining the arrangement.

For now, Kyiv is awaiting Moscow's response to the proposal, while continued attacks on ports and commercial infrastructure keep the security of Black Sea trade under pressure.

Iran has said it is in the final stages of reaching an agreement with Oman to reopen and regulate shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, even as fighting and diplomatic tensions continue across West Asia.

According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, both countries have agreed on the geographical coordinates of a proposed maritime transit route, with a joint statement currently undergoing final review. However, Tehran has maintained that the agreement can only be implemented if the United States ends what it describes as a naval blockade and refrains from actions that could undermine the arrangement.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Iran and Oman had resolved the technical aspects of the proposed route and were working towards finalising the broader framework governing navigation through the waterway.

Tehran Links Deal to US Actions

While expressing optimism over the negotiations with Muscat, Baqaei stressed that regional security concerns remain unresolved.

He argued that continued US military deployments and naval operations in the Gulf continue to pose risks to safe navigation and warned that external interference could delay implementation of the agreement.

Iran has consistently maintained that restoring normal maritime traffic requires broader security guarantees beyond the bilateral understanding with Oman.

Hormuz Traffic Drops Sharply

The diplomatic developments come as commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz continues to decline amid heightened regional tensions.

Recent shipping data showed that only two vessels transited the strategic waterway on Wednesday, compared with eight ships the previous day.

Industry observers attribute the sharp decline to growing security concerns following repeated attacks on commercial vessels by Yemen's Houthi movement and fears of further military escalation in the Gulf.

Several shipping companies have also begun rerouting cargo away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal, opting for the much longer voyage around the Cape of Good Hope in southern Africa.

Global Shipowners Warn Against Transit Toll

The world's largest shipping companies have urged the United Nations to oppose any permanent transit charges or restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, shipowners warned that introducing a permanent toll mechanism would disrupt global trade, increase transportation costs and fuel inflation worldwide.

The industry also cautioned that restricting internationally recognised navigation rights could create a dangerous precedent for other strategic maritime chokepoints.

US Continues Diplomatic Engagement

Despite continuing military tensions, US President Donald Trump reiterated that Washington remains engaged in direct talks with Tehran and prefers a negotiated settlement over further conflict.

Trump said diplomacy remains the preferred path but warned that the United States retains all options should negotiations fail.

Vice President JD Vance also acknowledged that discussions with Iran are likely to be complex and time-consuming but expressed confidence that any eventual agreement would strengthen US security interests while helping stabilise global energy markets.

Regional Violence Continues

While negotiations over shipping routes advance, violence across the region has shown little sign of easing.

Yemen's Houthi movement claimed responsibility for fresh missile attacks targeting two Saudi oil tankers—one near the Red Sea port of Yanbu and another in the Gulf of Aden—as part of its ongoing maritime campaign.

Meanwhile, Israel carried out fresh air strikes in southern Lebanon, saying the operations were launched in response to an explosion in Majdal Selem that killed two Israeli soldiers.

Energy Markets Remain Volatile

The uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil passes—continues to influence global commodity markets.

Although optimism surrounding a possible Iran-Oman agreement has raised hopes of improved maritime access, traders remain cautious as broader geopolitical tensions and military activity continue across West Asia.

Analysts say any sustained reopening of the waterway could ease pressure on oil supply chains, but lasting stability will depend on wider diplomatic progress between Iran, the United States and regional stakeholders.

Yemen Condemns Attack on Indian Ship

Yemen's internationally recognised government has expressed solidarity with India after an Indian commercial cargo vessel was sunk in a Houthi attack in the Red Sea, describing the assault as a serious violation of international law and a threat to global maritime security.

In an official statement, Yemen's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates strongly condemned the attack on MSV Faize Noore Oliya, which was struck near the port city of Hodeidah while transiting the Red Sea on Tuesday.

According to the ministry, the vessel was targeted using an explosive-laden boat, causing it to sink completely.

First Known Attack on Indian Merchant Vessel

The incident marks the first reported attack on an Indian merchant vessel in the Red Sea since the conflict in the region escalated.

The development has heightened concerns over the security of one of the world's busiest maritime trade corridors, with experts warning that attacks are expanding beyond the Strait of Hormuz and increasingly threatening commercial shipping across the wider region.

The Red Sea serves as a vital route for international trade, carrying a significant share of global cargo and energy supplies.

All Crew Members Rescued

Yemen said it was working closely with Indian authorities following the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to providing all necessary assistance.

The ministry praised the rapid rescue operation conducted by the Yemeni Coast Guard, with support from the Yemeni Navy, which safely evacuated all 14 crew members, including 13 Indian nationals, and transported them to the Port of Mocha.

The successful rescue prevented casualties despite the vessel being completely lost in the attack.

Attack Called Violation of International Law

Describing the strike as a "flagrant violation" of international and maritime law, Yemen's Foreign Ministry said attacks on commercial shipping threaten the safety of navigation and undermine freedom of movement through international waterways.

The government accused the Houthi movement of carrying out repeated attacks on merchant vessels, ports, oil facilities and civilian infrastructure, arguing that such actions have worsened Yemen's humanitarian crisis while destabilising regional security.

The ministry also stressed the importance of protecting international shipping lanes from further attacks.

India Condemns Assault

The attack comes after India strongly condemned the sinking of the cargo vessel and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Indian seafarers and maritime interests.

Indian authorities have been monitoring developments in the Red Sea closely amid growing security risks posed by attacks on commercial shipping.

The latest incident is expected to further intensify international concerns over maritime security as geopolitical tensions continue to affect key global trade routes.

The conflict in West Asia is no longer confined to the battlefield. It is increasingly threatening some of the world's most critical maritime trade routes, raising fresh concerns for the global economy. After prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, attention has now shifted to the Red Sea, where reports suggest Iran has asked Yemen's Houthi movement to prepare for a possible closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

If the strategic waterway is disrupted, it could significantly impact global shipping, energy supplies and international trade. For India, which relies heavily on maritime imports and exports, the consequences could be substantial.

Why the Bab el-Mandeb Strait Matters

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. It serves as a crucial gateway for ships travelling between Asia and Europe through the Suez Canal.

Every year, thousands of commercial vessels carrying crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), manufactured goods and essential commodities pass through the narrow passage. Any disruption would force ships to take the much longer route around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, increasing both transit time and transportation costs.

Potential Impact on India

India imports nearly 85% of its crude oil requirements, with a significant share sourced from West Asian countries. While much of this energy reaches India through the Strait of Hormuz, exports to Europe and trade with Mediterranean markets largely depend on the Red Sea route.

A prolonged disruption in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could have multiple economic consequences:

• Shipping costs may rise sharply due to longer routes and higher insurance premiums.

• Crude oil prices could increase, pushing up India's import bill.

• Exports to Europe may become costlier and slower, affecting sectors such as engineering goods, textiles, pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

• Delays in the supply of raw materials and components could disrupt manufacturing and industrial production.

Inflation Risks

Higher transportation and fuel costs are likely to translate into increased prices for goods and services. Rising crude oil prices generally lead to higher fuel costs, which eventually affect logistics, food prices and overall inflation.

Economists warn that persistent supply disruptions could put additional pressure on the Reserve Bank of India's efforts to maintain price stability.

Supply Chain Challenges

Global supply chains are still recovering from disruptions witnessed over the past few years. Any closure of the Red Sea route could create fresh bottlenecks in the movement of containers, industrial equipment and consumer goods.

Companies dependent on just-in-time deliveries may face production delays, while exporters could encounter higher freight charges and longer delivery schedules.

Government Monitoring Developments

Indian authorities are closely monitoring developments in West Asia. Shipping companies have already increased security measures, while global maritime agencies continue to issue advisories for vessels operating in the region.

Industry experts believe that if tensions escalate further and both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait face prolonged disruptions, global trade could witness one of its biggest logistical challenges in recent years.

For India, maintaining energy security, controlling inflation and ensuring uninterrupted trade will remain key priorities as geopolitical tensions continue to evolve.

The renewed conflict between the United States and Iran has shifted beyond the nuclear issue, with the two countries now clashing over the administration of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The dispute centres on differing interpretations of a ceasefire Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year, which both sides claim supports their position.

The latest military exchanges began after Iran targeted commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, alleging they had failed to follow navigation rules issued by Tehran. The United States responded with strikes on Iranian military positions, accusing Iran of threatening international shipping and freedom of navigation.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes, carrying nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies. Any disruption in the waterway has immediate implications for global energy markets and international trade.

Disagreement Over MoU Clause

According to Iranian officials, Clause 5 of the ceasefire MoU authorises Iran to consult with Oman and other Gulf countries on the future administration and maritime services in the Strait while exercising the sovereign rights of coastal states under international law.

Iran maintains that this provision gives it the authority to regulate vessel movement through the Strait, including directing ships to use designated routes.

The United States, however, has opposed Iran's interpretation, arguing that international shipping cannot be subjected to unilateral restrictions that affect global maritime commerce.

Commercial Shipping Caught in the Middle

Reports indicate that several commercial vessels continued using routes that Iran had instructed ships to avoid. Tehran subsequently launched attacks on some of those vessels, claiming they had violated its navigation directives.

The incidents prompted the United States to launch military operations against Iranian command centres, air defence systems and coastal military infrastructure, further escalating tensions in the region.

Both countries have since exchanged multiple rounds of strikes, raising concerns over regional stability.

Strategic Importance of the Strait

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, making it a critical passage for global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Any prolonged disruption in shipping through the waterway has the potential to increase crude oil prices, raise shipping costs and impact energy-importing countries across Asia and Europe.

Global Concern Grows

The renewed hostilities have drawn international attention as governments and shipping companies closely monitor security conditions in the Gulf region.

Several maritime authorities have issued advisories asking vessels to remain on high alert while transiting the area, amid fears of further attacks on commercial shipping.

Despite the military escalation, both Washington and Tehran have indicated that diplomatic channels remain open, although no immediate breakthrough has been announced.

Iran Announces New Service Fee Framework for Strait of Hormuz Shipping, Allies May Receive Concessions

Iran has announced plans to introduce a new service fee framework for commercial vessels passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, while indicating that countries which supported Tehran during its recent conflict could receive preferential treatment under the proposed system.

The announcement was made by Iran's Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, during the World Peace Forum in Beijing on Saturday. According to the ambassador, Iran is working in coordination with Oman to establish a long-term mechanism for managing maritime traffic through the narrow waterway, one of the world's most critical energy corridors.

Fazli clarified that the proposed charges would not be imposed as a transit toll but as payment for services provided by Iran in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of ships through the strait.

"As a country where the Hormuz is part of its territorial waters, we will definitely charge service fees," the ambassador said while outlining Tehran's proposal.

According to Iranian officials, the fees would cover a range of maritime services, including navigation security, vessel monitoring, traffic management and measures aimed at addressing the environmental impact created by heavy commercial shipping in the region.

The announcement follows the expiry of a temporary arrangement reached after the recent ceasefire between Iran and the United States. Under that agreement, commercial vessels were permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz without paying any charges for a period of 60 days. Iranian authorities have not yet specified when the new fee structure will officially come into force.

Beyond the proposed charges, Tehran has also hinted at extending favourable treatment to countries that maintained supportive ties with Iran during the recent hostilities.

"We will definitely consider special treatment for the countries that were friendly to us and specially stood by us during the hard times," Fazli said.

However, Iranian officials have not identified which countries would qualify for such concessions or explained the criteria that would determine eligibility. Details regarding possible fee discounts or operational benefits for these nations have also not been disclosed.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategically significant maritime passages in the world. Nearly one-fifth of global crude oil shipments pass through the narrow channel connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Any disruption to shipping through the strait has immediate implications for international energy markets, oil prices and global supply chains.

During the recent conflict in West Asia, commercial movement through the waterway was temporarily disrupted, fuelling concerns over global oil supplies and contributing to a sharp rise in crude prices. The passage resumed normal operations after the ceasefire agreement between Tehran and Washington.

Iran's latest proposal suggests the country is seeking to institutionalise its role in regulating commercial shipping through the strategic waterway while generating revenue from services associated with maritime safety and environmental management.

Industry observers are expected to closely monitor how shipping companies, major oil-importing nations and international maritime organisations respond once the proposed framework is formally implemented. The introduction of service fees could also influence freight costs and operational planning for vessels transiting one of the busiest energy corridors in the world.

For now, Tehran has maintained that the initiative is intended to compensate for services provided rather than restrict international navigation, though further details regarding the structure, pricing and implementation timeline remain awaited.