News

'You gave clearance': Distress call from Indian tanker after Iran firing in Hormuz

by Trans World Features | @twfindia 19 Apr 2026, 06:26 am

Two Indian-flagged oil tankers were forced to turn back in the Strait of Hormuz after coming under fire from Iranian gunboats, amid escalating tensions in the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict.

No injuries were reported and the vessels were not damaged, media reports said.

Distress audio captures chaos at sea

A distress message from one of the ships, Sanmar Herald, has surfaced, revealing the confusion during the incident.

In the roughly 30-second audio, a crew member is heard pleading with Iranian forces:

“Sepah Navy… This is motor tanker Sanmar Herald. You gave me clearance to go… You are firing now. Let me turn back.”

The audio was shared by Tanker Trackers, a maritime intelligence firm.

Another vessel, Jag Arnav, also came under fire and was forced to retreat.

Vessel was in ‘green zone’

According to NBC News, the tanker was in the strait’s designated “Green Area” at the time of the incident.

The ship had briefly switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) while heading eastbound before turning it back on.

India lodges strong protest

India reacted sharply, summoning Iran’s envoy and conveying its “deep concern” over the incident.

The Ministry of External Affairs stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of merchant shipping and urged Iran to resume facilitating safe passage for India-bound vessels.

Confusion deepens over Hormuz access

The incident comes amid growing uncertainty over navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route that carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas.

Iran has sent mixed signals in recent days—initially reopening the strait after a ceasefire, before reimposing restrictions and warning that any vessel entering could be targeted.

Iran’s military said the waterway is now under “strict management and control,” citing the ongoing conflict and alleging violations of the ceasefire.

The firing on commercial vessels underscores rising risks in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, with conflicting directives and military escalation increasing uncertainty for global shipping.