DUBAI/BASRA: Explosive-laden Iranian boats reportedly attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters on Wednesday, killing one crew member. The attacks followed earlier strikes on four vessels in Gulf waters.
The targeted ships included the Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and Malta-flagged Zefyros, both carrying fuel cargoes from Iraq. Iraqi port officials confirmed the assaults occurred in the ship-to-ship loading area within Iraqi territorial waters.
Following the attacks, Iraq’s oil ports halted operations, while commercial ports remained open, according to the state-run General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI). Rescue teams evacuated 25 crew members, though one foreign sailor was found dead, authorities said.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any continued attacks on Iran could result in ships in the Strait of Hormuz being targeted. The Guards have previously struck vessels using missiles and drones, marking a heightened phase of regional tension.
Earlier on Wednesday, projectiles of unknown origin struck the Thai-flagged Mayuree Naree in the Strait of Hormuz, damaging the engine room. Three crew members are reported missing, while the rest were safely evacuated to Oman. Iran’s Guards claimed responsibility for the attack, signaling direct engagement by its forces.
The incidents have disrupted shipping in the Gulf and the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which carries nearly 20% of global oil supplies. US and Israeli strikes on Iran since February 28 have raised global oil prices to levels not seen since 2022.
Additional vessels were affected, including Japan-flagged ONE Majesty and Marshall Islands-flagged Star Gwyneth, both sustaining minor damage from unknown projectiles. All crew members on these ships were reported safe.
Iraqi and maritime authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Experts warn that ongoing tensions involving Iran could prolong disruptions to global energy markets and maritime traffic in the region.
In other news read more about UN Security Council Urges Iran to Stop Attacks on Gulf States
The international shipping industry faces mounting risks, as the US Navy has limited military escorts due to security concerns. Officials say the situation remains volatile, with further attacks possible while geopolitical disputes persist.
