US Blockade Strands 15 Indian Vessels in Strait of Hormuz
Fifteen Indian-flagged vessels are stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz following the US announcement of a blockade on Iranian ports. The blockade, effective from 14:00 GMT on Monday, aims to control maritime traffic in a critical shipping corridor that handles 25% of global oil trade. The Indian Navy is coordinating with merchant vessels in the region, with six naval ships positioned nearby. While transit for non-Iranian vessels is allowed, shipping movement has slowed significantly. The US military's Central Command stated that it would not impede vessels heading to or from non-Iranian ports. This escalation follows failed peace talks between the US and Iran, raising concerns about potential retaliatory actions from Iran and further disruptions in global energy supplies.
Published 2 days ago • 13 Apr 2026, 11:37 AM IST