Oil tankers attacked in Strait of Hormuz; Iran accused of blocking commercial traffic
Two oil tankers have been struck by "unidentified projectiles" in the Strait of Hormuz region, according to the British Maritime Trade Operations agency on Friday. The incidents mark the latest threat to shipping in this critical waterway, which handles a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas trade.
Tehran has been blocking the passage of commercial ships and firing on vessels it accuses of making unauthorised crossings through the strait. The first attack caused a small fire and blackout onboard the vessel, though the fire was later extinguished. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported no casualties or environmental impact from this incident, and the vessel was able to resume its journey after the attack. Hours later, a second crude oil tanker reported being struck by an "unknown projectile" east of Oman, with all crew reported safe and no environmental damage, according to UKMTO.
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the heart of Middle East tensions following US and Israeli strikes against Iran in late February. Washington has responded with a counterblockade of Iranian ports in an effort to prevent Tehran from exporting its oil. The UKMTO said authorities were investigating both incidents.
