India has summoned Iran’s ambassador to lodge a formal protest after Indian-flagged vessels came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, government sources said on Saturday, marking a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions amid the ongoing regional crisis.

New Delhi is expected to convey its “serious concerns and displeasure” over the incident and seek an explanation for the circumstances under which Iranian forces allegedly opened fire on civilian shipping in one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.

Sources said the Ministry of External Affairs called in the Iranian envoy following reports that Indian vessels were targeted near a sensitive transit point in the strategic waterway.

Officials are likely to press Tehran on the authority under which such action was taken, underscoring concerns over the safety of commercial traffic in international waters.

Indian vessels caught in firing incident

Government sources confirmed that at least two Indian vessels were caught up in the episode, reportedly near an IRGC-controlled checkpoint close to Larak Island.

While no injuries or damage have been reported, the vessels were forced to alter course and retreat following the exchange of fire. Another Indian vessel is understood to have successfully crossed the strait earlier in the day.

Since morning, at least eight India-flagged or India-bound vessels approached the Strait of Hormuz. Except for one — Desh Garima — the others were compelled to turn back amid rising tensions.

Government monitoring situation

Authorities said the Directorate General of Shipping is closely tracking developments and taking necessary steps to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels operating in the region.

The government reiterated that safeguarding Indian crew members remains a top priority.

Tensions rise in key oil chokepoint

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, with Tehran tightening its control over the Strait of Hormuz and enforcing stricter maritime checks.

The vital chokepoint, which handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments, has witnessed increased military activity in recent days, with several vessels reportedly being turned back after coming under fire.

Saturday’s development adds a significant diplomatic dimension to the unfolding crisis, raising fresh concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and the risk of further escalation in the region.