Two oil tankers attacked in Strait of Hormuz
A Thailand flagged cargo ship, Mayuri Nari, is seen covered in black smoke about 11 nautical miles north of Oman in the Strait of Hormuz. File photo / Reuters
Two oil tankers were hit by “unidentified projectiles” in the Strait of Hormuz area. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the incidents on Friday. The attacks have created a fresh security risk for shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
UKMTO said the first attack caused a small fire inside the tanker and cut off its power supply. The fire was later brought under control. No casualties were reported. There were also no reports of environmental damage.
The tanker was sailing out through the Strait of Hormuz. After the fire was brought under control it resumed its journey. However, its departure point and destination were not disclosed.
Hours later another crude oil tanker was hit by an “unidentified projectile” east of Oman. UKMTO said all crew members on the vessel were safe. There were also no reports of environmental damage.
UKMTO said both incidents are under investigation.
Before the United States and Israel began attacks on Iran on the last day of February nearly one fifth of the world’s oil and LNG was transported through the Strait of Hormuz. Amid the ongoing war in the Middle East this vital waterway has now become one of the main centers of the conflict.
Iran is obstructing commercial shipping and has been accused of attacking various vessels for crossing the Strait without permission. In response the United States has imposed a counter blockade around Iranian ports. The aim is to prevent Iran’s oil exports.
Source: Al Jazeera (Adapted)
