Following a shooting incident involving two Indian ships by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps on April 18, the Indian Navy has enhanced security measures around the Strait of Hormuz.
The Navy has released new guidelines for Indian-registered ships in the Persian Gulf, instructing them to avoid the area near Larak Island and to proceed only upon receiving explicit approval to guarantee safe passage.
According to sources, the Navy is focusing on protecting all Indian ships queued to navigate the strait.
So far, 11 Indian vessels have successfully passed through. The most recent, the tanker Desh Garima, completed the transit on April 18—the same day that Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald were forced to retreat after being targeted by Iranian forces during their attempt.
Larak Island is located at the strait’s narrowest section and hosts significant portions of Iran’s oil facilities. Due to its importance to the country’s energy industry, the surrounding waters are under strict surveillance, with bunkers, radar installations, and bases equipped to launch swift boat operations against ships.
After passing the strait, Desh Garima is currently under Indian Navy escort in the Arabian Sea and is scheduled to reach Mumbai on April 22.
Fourteen additional Indian ships remain in the Persian Gulf, awaiting permission to cross. The Navy maintains ongoing contact with these vessels and has directed them to wait for authorization before moving.
Seven Indian Navy warships are positioned near the Persian Gulf, providing escorts to vessels after they exit the Strait of Hormuz.
