‘You Cleared Us, Let Me Turn Back’: Audio Emerges After Firing Near Indian-Flagged Ships At Hormuz

Last Updated:April 18, 2026, 19:13 IST

Indian flagged ships report gunfire near Strait of Hormuz, crew unharmed, India summons Iran envoy, Iran imposes strict transit rules as US naval blockade keeps tensions high.

After two Indian flagged ships reported gunfire incidents, an audio has emerged from one of the merchant ships slamming the maritime authorities for firing near them at the Strait of Hormuz.

Shipping sources said the incidents occurred as the merchant ships tried to pass through the narrow waterway, which has been at the centre of escalating tensions linked to the ongoing regional conflict.

According to maritime sources, ships navigating Hormuz reported shots being fired nearby, though it remains unclear who was responsible for the incidents or whether any vessels were directly hit.

A tanker’s captain told authorities that two gunboats, believed to be linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, approached the vessel and fired shots. Despite the scare, the ship’s crew was unharmed.

Meanwhile, Russia Today cited an audio from Sanmar Herald, which was sailing under Indian flag.

“My name second on your list! You gave me clearance to go! You are firing now! Let me turn back!" the audio stated.

CNN-News18 quoted top Indian government sources saying that as there was general small arms firing in the area, two of our vessels which were close to the narrow part of the Strait were also at the receiving end by stray bullets.

“They were not specifically targeted. No damages or injuries have been reported," they said.

Following the incident, Iran Ambassador was summoned by India’s foreign ministry.

The developments come even as Iran has declared the strait “open" to commercial shipping during a ceasefire. However, Iranian authorities have also imposed strict conditions on transit, including mandatory permissions and designated routes.

At the same time, the United States continues to maintain a naval blockade targeting Iran, contributing to a complex and tense security environment.

News india ‘You Cleared Us, Let Me Turn Back’: Audio Emerges After Firing Near Indian-Flagged Ships At Hormuz

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