Two crude oil tankers were struck by unknown projectiles off Oman and near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The first incident occurred as a tanker was exiting the Strait of Hormuz. The strike caused a brief fire and a temporary power blackout onboard but the crew extinguished the flames. The vessel suffered no casualties or environmental damage and has resumed its journey.
Hours later, a second tanker reported being hit on its port side roughly four nautical miles east of Oman. UKMTO confirmed that all crew members aboard the second vessel are safe with no environmental harm reported.
The attacks mark the latest escalation in a vital maritime corridor through which a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passes. Tensions in the waterway have surged following recent military strikes involving the US, Israel and Iran leading to blockades and attacks on commercial shipping.
Maritime authorities are investigating both strikes. UKMTO has advised all commercial vessels transiting the area to exercise extreme caution and immediately report any suspicious activity.
