DUBAI: A commercial tanker has reportedly been struck by unidentified projectiles off the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to a statement issued on Monday by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), heightening concerns over maritime security in the already volatile Gulf region.
The UK-based maritime monitoring agency said the vessel was hit approximately 78 nautical miles north of Fujairah, a key Emirati port city situated along the Gulf of Oman.
Despite the incident, all crew members aboard the tanker were confirmed safe, with no immediate reports of casualties or severe damage.
“A tanker has reported being hit by unknown projectiles,” the UKMTO said in its advisory, urging vessels operating in the vicinity to exercise heightened caution while authorities continue to assess the situation and investigate the nature of the attack.
The development comes at a time of sustained geopolitical tension in the region, particularly around the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.
The latest maritime incident adds to growing unease among international shipping operators navigating these waters, according to AFP.
The report coincides with an ongoing standoff between the United States and Iran, despite a ceasefire in the broader Middle East conflict that came into effect on April 8.
Tehran has warned that any US intervention in the Strait of Hormuz would violate the ongoing ceasefire, as tensions with Washington persist despite a recent truce.
US President Donald Trump has announced a new maritime initiative, “Project Freedom,” aimed at escorting stranded commercial vessels through the waterway, describing it as a humanitarian effort.
Iran, however, has rejected any such involvement, warning of consequences if the US interferes.
The standoff follows Iran’s tightening control over the vital shipping corridor, which has disrupted global energy supplies and contributed to rising oil prices, while broader negotiations between the two sides remain deadlocked.
