Three separate attacks occurred within 24 hours on a critical oil shipping route in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that an unidentified drone struck an oil tanker transiting the strait. This incident was the third attack recorded against tankers in the region in the past day.
According to the UKMTO statement, the tanker's report indicated that a UAV hit the vessel. The attack caused minor structural damage, but no crew injuries or environmental impact occurred. The tanker continued its voyage.
On the same day, UKMTO announced that another oil tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz was hit by an unknown projectile. The vessel's hull is believed to have sustained damage. In a third incident, an oil tanker 8 nautical miles east of Lima, Oman, reported a fire after an unidentified projectile struck its port side.
Iran claims responsibility for attack
Iranian state television announced that the Iranian navy targeted an oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz. Citing unnamed sources, the report claimed that the Qatari-flagged vessel 'Al-Rakiyat' attempted to pass through the Oman route with the support of the U.S. Navy, but became a target after ignoring repeated warnings.
Qatar accuses Iran of violating international law
Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the targeting of its tanker 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 persist in the region
The Strait of Hormuz has periodically witnessed security tensions following the war launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran on February 28. On June 18, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding, and difficult negotiations are ongoing under the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar to reach a final agreement.
