Tensions Rise in the Strait of Hormuz: Iran Opens Fire on Indian Tankers

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated sharply once again. On April 18, 2026, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out at least three shooting incidents against commercial vessels attempting to pass through the strait. It is reported that Indian tankers carrying Iraqi oil were among the vessels attacked.

According to Axios, one of the damaged tankers was carrying 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil. Another vessel was fired upon after receiving permission to enter the strait, forcing the crew to change course and turn back. Following this incident, more than 20 ships waiting at the entrance of the strait headed towards Oman.

A U.S. intelligence source told Fox News that the Strait of Hormuz has fallen back under the control of the IRGC. The Iranian Armed Forces headquarters stated in its announcement that since Washington failed to fulfill its obligations, control over the strait has been returned to its previous regime.

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the situation, stating that Iranian officials were making statements for domestic political purposes. Trump also warned that if no agreement is reached by Tuesday, bombings could resume. Negotiations are currently at a standstill; the Commander of the Pakistan Army visited Tehran as a mediator to deliver new U.S. proposals, but Iran has not yet responded.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council issued a statement declaring that as long as the U.S. attempts to impose a naval blockade, they will not agree to open the Strait of Hormuz under any circumstances. This event has caused serious concern in global oil markets, as the strait is a strategic waterway through which approximately 20 percent of the world's oil transit passes.