Iranian Drone Strikes Chemical Tanker off Indian Coast, US Reports
A drone launched from Iran hit the chemical tanker Chem Pluto in the Indian Ocean, according to the US military. The incident occurred 200 nautical miles from the coast of India, causing a fire on the vessel, which was later extinguished with no casualties.
Iran has not responded to the allegations. This follows a series of recent drone and rocket attacks on ships in the Red Sea by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
The US Central Command also reported Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile firings and the shooting down of drones near a US warship. The Indian navy has dispatched aircraft and warships for assistance.
The Pentagon labeled the attack on Chem Pluto as a “one-way attack drone fired from Iran.” Maritime security firm Ambrey noted the vessel’s connection to Israel. The incident has raised concerns about the heightened risk of Iranian drone attacks in the region, prompting global shipping groups to suspend operations in the Red Sea.
Iran has been accused of involvement in planning operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, and an Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander warned of potential waterway closures beyond the Red Sea if perceived crimes in Gaza continue.(Source: BBC)
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67811929