Iran Targets Togo-Flagged Tanker; 12 Indians Aboard Chemical Vessel

New Delhi: Iran has attacked a chemical tanker flying the flag of the West African nation of Togo, which had 12 Indian crew members on board. The Ministry of Shipping stated that all Indian crew members are safe. Iran carried out the attack on the Togo-flagged vessel near the outer port area of ​​Shinas, Oman. The ship was proceeding alongside other vessels when the Iranian Coast Guard intercepted it, issued a warning, and opened fire.

Iran Opens Fire on Togo-Flagged Vessel
According to the Ministry of Shipping, the Togo-flagged chemical tanker in question is named MT Chiron. The vessel’s crew included 12 Indian nationals. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has shared detailed information regarding this incident.

Briefing the media on recent developments in West Asia, Mr. Mandeep Singh Randhawa, Director at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated: “All Indian vessels present in the Persian Gulf, along with their crews, are being closely monitored. All seafarers currently in the Persian Gulf are safe.”

Tensions Persist in the Strait of Hormuz
Amidst its ongoing standoff with the United States, Iran has consistently asserted its control over the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Navy has explicitly declared that no vessel may traverse the Strait of Hormuz without its permission. The Iranian Navy has been continuously targeting vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that attempt to cross the waterway. Recently, Iran intercepted three vessels attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz and took them into custody.