An attack in Hormuz Strait caused a fire on a tanker off the coast of Oman on Monday after the vessel was struck by an unknown projectile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said.
The tanker reported that it was hit on its port side while sailing southwards, causing a fire to break out, according to a UKMTO statement.
No crew members were injured and no environmental pollution was reported following the incident.
Attack occurred near Strait of Hormuz
The incident took place eight nautical miles (14 kilometres) east of Lima, in the Sultanate of Oman.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime route connecting oil-producing countries in the Middle East with global markets, particularly in Asia.
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), around 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait daily in 2024, representing nearly 20% of global liquid oil consumption.
Shipping disrupted by Middle East conflict
Commercial shipping activity in the area declined sharply following the escalation of the Middle East conflict on 1 March, when Iran effectively closed the strategic waterway in response to a US-Israeli attack that began on 28 February.
The United States later imposed restrictions on Iranian ports in the Gulf.
International shipping resumed after a memorandum of understanding was signed by the US and Iranian presidents on 17 June ahead of negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
However, Tehran has continued to state that there will be no return to the pre-war situation, when vessels could pass freely through the strait.
Previous incidents increase tensions
In late June, two vessels were struck by projectiles of unknown origin. The US military attributed those attacks to Iran and later carried out strikes against the country.
Iran responded by launching missiles and drones towards Gulf neighbours, particularly Kuwait and Bahrain. The parties later agreed to suspend hostilities.
The latest attack adds to concerns over maritime security in one of the world’s most important energy routes.
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