Strait of hormuz: Twenty crew members have been reported rescued following an attack on three vessels, including a Thai-flagged cargo ship, near the Strait of Hormuz. Three crew members remain on the Thai cargo ship, MAYUREE NAREE, which came under fire near its stern while navigating waters close to Oman.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Thai Navy, citing local media, confirmed the incident and reported that Thailand’s naval personnel in Bahrain coordinated with Omani authorities to assist the ship’s 23 crew members. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, though authorities are currently assessing any injuries.
The Thai Enquirer detailed that the MAYUREE NAREE was one of three ships targeted in the strait. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) noted that another vessel suffered damage from “a suspected but unknown projectile,” though all crew members were unharmed. The extent of the damage remains under investigation.
A third vessel was also struck by an “unknown projectile” about 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai, UAE. UKMTO confirmed the safety of the crew and reported no environmental damage. Further reports identified one of the ships as operated by the Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. Japan’s public broadcaster NHK, referencing sources from the shipping company and the Transport Ministry, indicated that “it is unlikely that the ship was attacked,” although the crew found a hole in the ship’s rear after hearing an impact noise.
Earlier this month, another Japan-linked vessel was damaged in the Gulf of Oman by a falling object. In response to these incidents, vessels passing through the area have been advised to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities.
The strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily, faces potential disruptions. Recent joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran, which began on February 28, have escalated tensions in the region, resulting in over 1,200 casualties, including Ali Khamenei, Iran’s former supreme leader.