DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Web Desk : Tensions in the strategic Strait of Hormuz have escalated sharply following a series of attacks on commercial vessels in Gulf waters.
According to international media reports, at least six ships were targeted near the waters of Iraq, triggering fires aboard two oil tankers and raising concerns over maritime security in one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.
Among the vessels reportedly hit were the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tankers Safe Sea Vishnu and Zephyros, which had departed with fuel cargo from Iraqi ports. Officials said the attacks caused severe fires on both ships.
Authorities confirmed that rescue teams evacuated several crew members from the affected vessels, though reports indicated that at least one foreign crew member was killed in the incident.
Iraqi port authorities said operations at the country’s oil terminals were temporarily suspended following the attacks, while commercial ports continued functioning normally.
Reports also suggested that the attacks involved explosive-laden unmanned boats and naval mines, highlighting a new level of threat to maritime shipping in the Gulf.
The developments come amid heightened tensions after Iran warned that vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz could be targeted if the regional conflict escalates further.
Security analysts say the latest attacks could have serious implications for global energy supplies, as a significant portion of the world’s oil exports pass through the narrow maritime corridor.
