India directed Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf to avoid Larak Island and transit only under naval clearance after two ships came under fire from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The Indian Navy tightened its security grid near the Strait of Hormuz following the April 18 incident involving Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald. Officials confirmed that ten Indian ships have safely crossed Hormuz, including tanker Desh Garima, which is now escorted in the Arabian Sea and expected to reach Mumbai on April 22.
Larak Island lies at the narrowest point of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint carrying nearly 20% of global oil before the Iran-US conflict. The island hosts major Iranian oil infrastructure and several military bases capable of deploying fast boats. Traffic through Hormuz remains closely monitored by bunkers and radar systems.
Fourteen Indian vessels remain in the Persian Gulf awaiting clearance. The Navy advised them to move only after receiving instructions. Seven Indian Navy ships have been deployed near the Gulf to escort tankers once they cross Hormuz. Officials said the government remains in touch with Iran and other countries to ensure safe passage.
