A crude oil tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile about four nautical miles east of Oman on Saturday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said, as concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region continue to grow.
According to a statement posted by UKMTO on X, the vessel’s captain reported damage to the tanker’s port side following the incident. All crew members were reported safe, and there were no immediate reports of pollution or other environmental damage.
UKMTO urged vessels operating in the area to exercise caution and remain vigilant, while encouraging crews to report any suspicious activity to maritime authorities.
The incident came a day after UKMTO reported that another vessel had been struck by an unidentified projectile while leaving the Strait of Hormuz.
The impact caused a small fire and knocked out power aboard the ship. The fire was later extinguished, and the vessel was able to continue its journey.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
It is a major transit corridor for global energy supplies, making attacks or incidents involving commercial vessels a significant security concern for international shipping and oil markets.
The latest incidents have heightened concerns about maritime security around Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, where any prolonged disruption could affect commercial shipping and the movement of energy supplies.
UKMTO has continued to monitor the situation and issue warnings to vessels operating in the area.