India, April 19 -- India on Saturday called in Iran's Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali, in what officials described as a strong diplomatic response following a firing incident involving Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the envoy was called for a meeting with the Foreign Secretary, who conveyed India's "deep concern" over the developments earlier in the day.

During the meeting, the Foreign Secretary underscored the importance India places on the safety of merchant shipping and seafarers. He also recalled Iran's past cooperation in facilitating the safe passage of India-bound vessels through the strategically vital waterway.

Reiterating concern over what was...