Iran fired on two Indian-flagged oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting global concerns regarding the safety of friendly maritime shipping. The attack is notable as India maintains working diplomatic and economic ties with Tehran.

Iran’s firing on two Indian-flagged oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz has raised fresh questions about how far Tehran can protect even friendly shipping as the conflict pushes closer to maritime chaos. The attack, which took place on Saturday, has been especially awkward for Iran because New Delhi is not an adversary and still maintains working ties with Tehran, including renewed oil purchases in recent weeks under a temporary US sanctions waiver. Analysts said the attack on Jag Arnav and...