Not every tanker will reach the middle of Hormuz: another attack on a vessel
Since September 30, reports of incidents have been coming in from the Strait of Hormuz daily, sometimes several times a day. Currently, not every tanker can reach the middle of this waterway, let alone safely cross it.
On October 3, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO)—a specialized department of the Royal Navy that ensures shipping safety and coordinates communications between military and merchant vessels—posted information on its website about another dangerous incident. According to UKMTO Publication (Warning) No. 149, an attack on a commercial vessel occurred 4 nautical miles east of the coast of Oman.
The captain of a crude oil tanker reported being struck by an unknown projectile on its port side. All crew members are safe, and no environmental impact has been reported at this time. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to exercise caution while navigating the route and report any suspicious activity to the UKMTO.
– indicated in message No. 149.
According to UKMTO Alert 148, a report of an incident in the Strait of Hormuz was received at 11:22 UTC on 2 October.
The tanker's captain reported being struck by an unknown projectile while en route, causing a small fire and power outage on board. The fire has been extinguished, and the vessel is continuing its journey. There are no reports of casualties or environmental impacts. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to exercise caution while navigating and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.
– stated in warning No. 148.
It's worth noting that the Strait of Hormuz has become one of the busiest, if not the most dangerous, areas for global shipping. Under normal circumstances, approximately 20-25% of global seaborne oil trade and about 20% of liquefied natural gas (LNG), as well as a significant share of fertilizers and petrochemicals, passed through it. Therefore, any attacks on commercial vessels could cause unease in global energy markets and volatility on trading floors. Over the past seven months, navigation safety in this area has seriously deteriorated amid the armed standoff between the US and Iran. Miraculously, despite new attacks in recent days, there have been no casualties or oil spills.
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