Trump’s victory claim: Iran retaliates with maritime strikes

TEHRAN/BAGHDAD: In a sharp escalation of the ongoing West Asian conflict, Iran has launched a series of retaliatory strikes against commercial shipping, setting multiple vessels ablaze. The attacks follow a declaration of victory by US President Donald Trump, who claimed Wednesday that American forces had "virtually destroyed" Iran's military capabilities.

Deadly strike near Basra

At approximately 2:30 AM (IST) on Thursday, an Iranian maritime strike targeted the MT Safesea Vishnu, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker owned by the American firm Safesea Transport. Reports indicate the vessel was struck by an explosive-laden craft near the coast of Basra, Iraq, while conducting cargo operations.

The attack resulted in the death of one Indian sailor. The Iraqi Coast Guard successfully rescued 15 other Indian nationals, including the ship's captain, along with 12 Filipino crew members. The tanker was carrying 48,000 tonnes of naphtha at the time of the incident.

Wider Offensive in Gulf Waters

The strike on the Safesea Vishnu was part of a broader Iranian offensive against international shipping:

• MT Zephyros: This tanker was the first to be targeted. Despite a significant fire breaking out on board, all 23 crew members—believed to be Georgian nationals—were safely evacuated.
• Source Blessing: A Chinese-owned container ship was attacked north of Jebel Ali in the UAE. While the vessel caught fire, the crew managed to bring it under control and were reported safe.

Hormuz Under Siege

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, announced that these operations will continue. He declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed to pressure "enemies" of the state. Following the surge in maritime threats, the US has reportedly withdrawn its previous position on providing direct escorts for merchant ships in the region.

Diplomatic breakthrough for India

• Amid the blockade, a diplomatic channel has secured safe passage for India-bound cargo. Following high-level telephone discussions between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Tehran granted permission for two specific vessels to transit the Strait.
• A Liberian-flagged tanker carrying Saudi Arabian crude oil has already arrived in Mumbai. Iranian authorities emphasised that while specific exemptions may be granted, all other vessels attempting to pass through the chokepoint without prior clearance face the risk of military interception.