India Summons Iran Envoy After Hormuz Strike Kills Indian Sailor

As per sources, the summoning was in relation to the attacks on the tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah which were reportedly targeted by the Iranian cruise missiles while sailing through Omani waters in the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz. 

India Condemns Attacks On Commercial Shipping

Following the incident, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had asked for an immediate de-escalation, calling the repeated incidents as 'deeply worrisome'.

MEA stated, “We strongly condemn these attacks and acts of violence targeting seafarers and disrupting free and safe navigation through international waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.

The Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi was summoned this morning by the Ministry of External Affairs and a strong protest against these attacks was lodged with him.”

"We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.

The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest," it added.

Iran Says Omani Route Was Security Threat

The Deputy Chief of Mission at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, Mohammad Javed Hosseini, was called to MEA. His summoning lasted a little over ten minutes as Iran's Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, is currently abroad. 

In the wake of the recent strikes, the IRGC again blamed the United States for its support to what they called an illegal route which closely follows the Omani side of the Strait. They also labeled the path as risky due to the mines planted in the area. 

UAE Blames Iranian Missile Strikes On Tankers

The UAE Ministry of Defence had issued a statement saying that two Emirati-flagged oil tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were attacked by Iranian cruise missiles while transiting through Omani waters in the Strait of Hormuz.

"The attack resulted in the death of one Indian crew member aboard the Mombasa tanker and the injury of eight others, including four who sustained serious injuries. The injured comprise six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals,” the Emirati Ministry of Defence said.

It added, “The UAE reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, its citizens and residents, in a manner that safeguards its sovereignty, security, and stability, and protects its national interests.”

West Asia Conflict Fuels Fresh Shipping Crisis

Since the conflict in West Asia broke out at the end of February, at least 13 Indians, primarily seafarers, have died. A joint operation by the United States and Israel resulted in the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 

In April, a temporary ceasefire was reached between the US and Iran, which was followed by an interim agreement that provided for a 60-day halt in hostilities. The interim deal, announced last month with mediation from Pakistan, has seemingly collapsed in recent days, with President Trump announcing over the weekend that the ceasefire is over and reinstating a blockade against Iran on Monday. Additionally, the US President announced new tolls for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.