A Mozambique-flagged LPG tanker named Disha was struck by an unidentified missile in Iranian territorial waters near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday [1], [4].
The attack underscores the volatile security environment in one of the world's most critical oil and gas transit chokepoints. Because the vessel was carrying a crew of Indian nationals, the incident increases the diplomatic stakes for New Delhi in the region.
The vessel issued a distress call immediately after the strike [2]. Reports indicate that the tanker was targeted by a missile of unknown origin [2], [5]. While some initial reports suggested a total of 30 crew members were on board [6], other sources confirmed the crew consisted of 28 Indian nationals [1], [3].
All 28 Indian crew members were reported safe following the attack [2]. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of the sailors [1].
Maritime security experts note that the incident occurred amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz remains a high-risk zone where commercial shipping is frequently caught in the middle of regional geopolitical disputes, a trend that continues to disrupt global energy supply chains [5].
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the missile strike. The vessel's current status and the extent of the structural damage to the Disha have not been fully detailed in official reports [1], [3].
“All 28 Indian crew members were reported safe following the attack.”
This attack highlights the persistent vulnerability of commercial shipping in Iranian waters, regardless of a vessel's flag. The presence of Indian crew members adds a layer of complexity, as India maintains significant energy interests in the region and must balance its maritime security needs with its diplomatic relations in the Middle East.
