Original Source
Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz, Orders Indian Ship to Halt Passage
Strait of Hormuz Closure and Halt Order to Indian Vessel
Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz and issued an order for an Indian-flagged ship to abort its passage. On April 18, 2026, a captain from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy instructed the Indian ship's captain that "the Strait is blocked and passage from that is forbidden," ordering them to "go back to your port immediately." Iran stated that this measure was in response to a continued blockade of its ports by the United States. The vessel ordered to halt its passage was identified as the Indian-flagged oil tanker Bhagya Laxmi.
India Summons Iranian Ambassador, Expresses Concern
India summoned the Iranian ambassador in response to the Iranian navy's orders concerning its ship. New Delhi expressed "deep concern" over the incident and urged Iran to ensure the safe passage of vessels bound for India. Reports also indicated that Iranian gunboats fired at a merchant vessel, and India stated that two Indian-flagged ships came under fire. This closure comes just hours after the Strait was reportedly reopened, escalating tensions in the Middle East.
*Source: YouTube: Al Jazeera English (2026-04-18)*
