Indian Crew Member Killed in Strait of Hormuz Tanker Attack
Missile strikes hit UAE tankers, causing fires, injuries, and rising regional tensions.
An Indian crew member has been killed and eight others injured after Iranian cruise missiles hit two UAE oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE Ministry of Defence said. The vessels, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were sailing in the southern lane of the strait in Omani territorial waters when they were struck. The Indian crew member who died was working on board the Mombasa.
Among the eight injured crew members, four were seriously hurt. Six of the injured were Indian nationals, while two were Ukrainian crew members.
The missile strikes caused fires on both tankers and led to major damage. The crew on both vessels managed to control the fires, helping prevent a bigger incident in one of the world's most important shipping routes.
The UAE strongly condemned the attack, calling it a serious violation of international law and saying it reserves the right to respond. The Ministry of Defence said, "The UAE remains fully prepared to confront any threat and respond decisively to actions that undermine regional stability." The country also said it will take all necessary steps to protect its sovereignty, security, and maritime interests.
Separate incident also reported
In a separate report, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency said a tanker about 40 nautical miles northeast of Oman's Qalhat was hit by an unidentified projectile. The agency said the impact damaged the vessel's starboard-side engine room, but all crew members were safe. It is still not clear whether this was one of the UAE tankers or another incident.
Wider regional tensions
The attacks come as tensions between the US and Iran continue to rise. On Monday, President Donald Trump announced a new blockade on Iranian shipping and warned of more military action. Hours later, US forces carried out a third straight night of strikes on Iran's coastal surveillance systems, drone facilities, and missile capabilities.
Tehran has rejected any US role in deciding who can use the Strait of Hormuz, with senior Iranian military officials saying the waterway will not be controlled by outside powers.
Before the current conflict, around one-fifth of the world's daily seaborne oil and gas trade passed through the Strait of Hormuz, making repeated attacks on commercial ships there a major concern for global energy markets and shipping companies.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.