In a strong diplomatic rebuke, India has sharply condemned the Iranian attack on a Thai-flagged cargo ship bound for the Indian port of Kandla, calling it “an unacceptable act of aggression against international shipping and innocent lives.”

The vessel, Mayuree Naree, was struck by an IRGC projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on March 17 while carrying vital cargo destined for India. The attack left the ship burning and caused at least one confirmed fatality — an Indian crew member — along with several injuries. Dramatic footage of the blazing vessel sparked outrage across India.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated: “India deplores this reckless strike on a peaceful commercial ship. Such attacks on innocent seafarers and global trade routes are completely unacceptable. Those responsible must be held accountable.”

Thailand has taken strong diplomatic action. The Thai government summoned Iran’s ambᴀssador in Bangkok, demanding an immediate explanation and compensation for the damaged vessel and affected crew. Thai officials described the incident as “a serious violation of international maritime law.”

This latest attack forms part of Iran’s aggressive “Strait of Death” campaign, in which the IRGC has repeatedly targeted commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to pressure nations supporting the US and Israel.

The broader war context remains tense.

Despite Iran’s maritime provocations, the US-led coalition continues to dominate the region. The dual supercarrier strike group — USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford — remains fully operational in the Arabian Sea under Operation Epic Fury, actively neutralizing Iranian naval threats and protecting key sea lanes. Thousands of U.S. Marines are also positioned to safeguard international shipping.

India, which imports a significant volume of oil through the Gulf, now finds itself directly impacted by Tehran’s reckless strategy. New Delhi has joined growing international calls for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to attacks on civilian vessels.

Iran’s attempts to weaponize global energy routes are backfiring, further isolating the regime as major nations — including India and Thailand — voice firm opposition.

The message is growing louder: Iran’s campaign of maritime terror will not force the world to submit. It will only accelerate the decisive response already underway.