Oil tanker hit by unknown projectile in Strait of Hormuz region: maritime agency

An unknown projectile struck and caused a fire on an oil tanker off the coast of Oman near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, British maritime security agency UKMTO said.

The incident occurred despite a ceasefire between the United States and Iran and ongoing efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement in the region.

Has a tanker been hit in the Strait of Hormuz?

Yes. UKMTO said a tanker was hit by an unknown projectile on its port side while traveling southbound, about eight nautical miles east of Limah, Oman. The agency reported no casualties or environmental damage and urged vessels to transit cautiously and report suspicious activity as authorities investigate the incident.

What did Axios report about the strike?

US news outlet Axios reported late Monday that Iran had fired at least two missiles at commercial ships, citing two unnamed US officials. One official told the outlet a second ship was also struck and suffered significant damage. AFP could not independently confirm the Axios report, and the Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important to global energy trade?

The Strait of Hormuz serves as the main maritime gateway for energy exports from the Gulf to international markets, particularly in Asia. About 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the waterway daily in 2024, roughly one-fifth of global crude supply, according to the US Energy Information Administration. That volume makes any disruption to shipping through the strait a significant concern for global oil markets.

How did the Strait of Hormuz become a flashpoint during the Middle East war?

The Strait of Hormuz was at the center of tensions during the Middle East war, when Iran blockaded the waterway and several commercial vessels came under attack. The attacks sent global energy prices sharply higher. The United States responded with its own naval blockade and later launched retaliatory strikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of targeting commercial shipping.

Has shipping resumed through the Strait of Hormuz?

Maritime traffic resumed after Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding last month aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the strategic route. Iran, however, has insisted there will be no return to the prewar arrangement, under which vessels could pass freely through the strait. Tehran has warned ships against using routes outside a corridor it has authorized along its coastline.