In a news conference on Monday, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically denied the accusations made by the United States that Tehran was behind an attack on a chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean. Tensions are rising globally over threats to maritime shipping and, in particular, the recent surge in attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Kanaani, firmly rejected the US claim that an Iran-launched drone had struck a Japanese-owned tanker near India. He dismissed the accusation as false and declared it as "completely rejected and worthless".

The targeted vessel, MV Chem Pluto, which belonged to Japan, was reportedly traveling approximately 200 nautical miles (370km) off the coast of India when the attack took place on Saturday, according to the US Pentagon. Maritime security firm Ambrey also reported that the tanker was "Israel-affiliated" and was en route from Saudi Arabia to India.

While Iran has been repeatedly accused by the US of being deeply involved in the attacks by the Houthi rebels, Tehran insists that it plays no role in coordinating with the rebels. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri, stated in an interview with Mehr news agency that the Houthi rebels have their own capabilities and act independently. He emphasized that the strength of the resistance movement in the region should not be overlooked.

The recent attack on the chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean marks the first time the US has directly attributed such an incident to Iran. Furthermore, it is the first attack on a vessel outside the Red Sea, where most of the previous assaults have taken place.

Amid the escalating tensions, Iran's navy has reportedly received long-range cruise missiles and reconnaissance helicopters, as announced by the country's state media. This development adds to the concerns surrounding the safety and security of maritime shipping in the region.

As global trade faces significant challenges due to the attacks on shipping vessels, the accusations and counter-accusations between Iran and the US only raise the stakes. The situation remains fluid and will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for maritime security and regional stability.

It is important to highlight that these developments are based solely on the statements and claims made by the involved parties and any further investigation is necessary to establish a complete picture of the events.