At least three commercial vessels have come under attack near the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions, raising growing concerns over global oil supply disruptions and rising energy prices.
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), two ships were struck by unidentified projectiles that triggered onboard fires, while another vessel reported an explosion occurring close to its position. Crew members aboard the affected ships were reported safe.
The incidents come as Iran continues military retaliation across the Middle East following ongoing strikes by the United States and Israel. Tehran has warned international shipping against transiting through the Strait of Hormuz — a vital maritime corridor responsible for transporting nearly 20% of the world’s oil and gas supplies.
Maritime tracking data indicates that international shipping activity has sharply declined, with more than 150 oil tankers anchoring outside the Gulf rather than entering the strait due to security fears and soaring insurance costs.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed that several tankers linked to the United States and the United Kingdom were hit by missiles and caught fire, though officials in Washington and London have not confirmed the claims.
Security agencies have reported multiple incidents across the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, urging vessels to navigate the region with extreme caution. Analysts warn that prolonged disruption to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could lead to significant increases in global oil prices if safe passage is not restored.
