The conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran entered its 13th day with continued airstrikes, missile attacks, and rising tensions across the Middle East. The escalating conflict has also triggered global concerns over shipping safety and energy supplies, particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
India Holds Talks With Iran
India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held multiple discussions with Iranian officials amid concerns about possible disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the talks focused on the safety of maritime trade routes and the potential impact of the ongoing conflict on global oil supplies.
Oil Tanker Reaches Mumbai After Passing Hormuz
Amid the rising tensions, an oil tanker carrying non-Iranian crude successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz and arrived in Mumbai. The tanker Shenlong had been loaded at Ras Tanura Oil Terminal, Saudi Arabia’s largest oil export facility, before reaching India on March 10.
Attacks on Ships Raise Alarm
Tensions in the region escalated further after multiple maritime incidents. A Thai-flagged cargo ship Mayuree Naree was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, leaving three crew members missing and 20 others rescued. Following the incident, Thailand summoned Iran’s ambassador to seek clarification and lodged a diplomatic protest.
Separately, a Japanese container ship One Majesty, operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, was damaged while anchored in the Persian Gulf. Although the vessel suffered structural damage, all crew members were reported safe.
Drone Attacks on Saudi Oilfield
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reported intercepting two drones targeting the Shaybah Oilfield, a major oil facility operated by Saudi Aramco with a production capacity of nearly one million barrels of crude oil per day. Saudi defence forces said the drones were destroyed before they could reach the facility.
Tankers Targeted in Iraqi Waters
Two fuel tankers were also attacked by explosive-laden boats in waters near Iraq, causing fires onboard and killing one crew member. Maritime security officials believe the boats were launched from Iran. The latest attacks bring the number of ships damaged or targeted since the conflict began to at least 16.
Rockets Fired Toward Israel
On the military front, Iran launched rockets toward Israel, triggering air-raid sirens across northern regions. The Golan Heights and Haifa Bay were among the areas placed on high alert. Israeli defence systems intercepted several projectiles, and no casualties were immediately reported.
Rising Regional Tensions
The conflict intensified after large-scale military operations reportedly targeted Iranian leadership and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders, raising fears of wider escalation across the region. Global energy markets and international shipping routes remain on high alert as the war continues to unfold.