The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a drone struck an oil tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The attack marks the third incident targeting oil tankers in the region in the last 24 hours.
In a statement, UKMTO said the tanker reported that an unidentified drone hit the vessel. The incident caused minor structural damage, but no injuries to the crew or environmental impact occurred. The tanker continued its journey.
Earlier the same day, UKMTO announced that an unknown projectile hit another oil tanker navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Damage to the hull is suspected, but no injuries or pollution were reported.
In a third incident, an oil tanker located 8 nautical miles east of the Omani city of Lima reported a fire on board after an unidentified projectile struck its port side.
Statement from Iran
Iranian state television announced that the Iranian navy targeted an oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz. Based on unnamed sources, the report claimed that the Qatari-flagged vessel "Al-Rakiyat" sought to transit the Omani route with US navy support, but became a target after ignoring repeated warnings.
Qatar Reacts
Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the targeting of its tanker near the Strait of Hormuz as “a grave and clear violation of international law.” The statement called on Iran to immediately cease practices that undermine regional security and threaten international navigation.
Tensions in the Region
The Strait of Hormuz has witnessed periodic security tensions since the war launched by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. On June 18, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding, and challenging negotiations for a final agreement continue with mediation by Pakistan and Qatar.
