A third tanker has been attacked in or near the Strait of Hormuz within 24 hours, renewing concerns over maritime security along one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
The latest vessel sustained minor damage but was able to continue towards its next port, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre.
Latest drone strike
UKMTO said the tanker was struck by a drone while transiting the strait, although the origin of the unmanned aircraft remains unknown.
No crew members were injured and no marine pollution was reported. The authorities are investigating the incident.
Qatari LNG carrier damaged
The attack followed a strike on the Qatari liquefied natural gas carrier Al Rekayyat, which was hit on its port side while sailing near the Omani coast.
The impact caused a fire in the engine room and forced the crew to issue a distress call. All crew members were reported safe and evacuation procedures were under way.
Qatar condemned the incident as an unacceptable attack on international navigation and global energy security, saying it held Iran legally responsible. Tehran had not officially claimed responsibility for the strike.
Saudi tanker also hit
A Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker, believed to be the Wedyan, was also damaged off the coast of Oman. The cause of the damage had not been confirmed.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. A US official said initial indications suggested that Iran had fired at two commercial vessels, but Iranian authorities had not commented on the allegation.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical passage for global oil and natural gas shipments, making any disruption a significant risk to international energy supplies.
With information from CNN, Reuters and AP.
