Attacks on Ships Intensify in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Tehran: Attacks on commercial and oil tankers in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz have intensified since the outbreak of conflict in the region, raising serious concerns about global maritime security and the stability of international energy markets.

According to reports, several commercial and oil-carrying vessels have been targeted in and around the Strait since February 28. The escalation comes after warnings from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that ships passing through the key maritime corridor could face potential threats.

The first major incident occurred on March 1 when an oil tanker flying the flag of the Marshall Islands was attacked near the coast of Oman, killing one crew member. On the same day, another fuel tanker was struck near Ras Al Khaimah, causing a fire onboard that was later brought under control. A separate tanker was also attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, though the crew was evacuated safely.

On March 2, a vessel caught fire after being hit by projectiles near the port of Bahrain, forcing the crew to abandon the ship. The following day, two additional ships sustained minor damage near Fujairah, further heightening concerns among international shipping companies.

On March 4, a container ship’s engine room caught fire, forcing the crew to evacuate. A day later, an oil tanker near the coast of Iraq was damaged in an explosion, reportedly caused by a remote-controlled boat loaded with explosives. Another tugboat in the same area was targeted on March 6.

Security alerts intensified on March 7 after reports of a possible drone attack near the coast of Saudi Arabia, prompting stricter maritime safety measures. On March 11, another ship was attacked and caught fire, while a Japanese container vessel sustained minor damage. A separate vessel northwest of Dubai was also affected, although its crew remained safe.

Meanwhile, two fuel tankers near Iraq were reportedly targeted, leading authorities to temporarily suspend operations at several Iraqi oil ports due to safety concerns.

Experts warn that if the situation continues to deteriorate, global oil supplies and international maritime trade could face serious disruptions, further intensifying volatility in the world energy market.