UKMTO: Projectile Causes Explosion off Sharjah Coast
Blast reported 15 nautical miles north of Sharjah as maritime security concerns intensify in Gulf waters.
- Publish date: Sunday، 22 March 2026 Reading time: 1 min read
A projectile caused an explosion near a commercial vessel off the coast of Sharjah on Sunday, March 22, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed, in the latest incident to heighten security concerns in the Gulf.
According to the UKMTO, the blast occurred approximately 15 nautical miles north of Sharjah, after an unidentified projectile detonated in proximity to a bulk carrier navigating the area.
The agency said the explosion happened near the vessel rather than on direct impact, and all crew members were reported safe, with no injuries recorded.
While the ship involved has not been officially identified, authorities described it as a bulk carrier transiting through one of the region’s busiest maritime corridors. The UKMTO has issued advisories urging vessels in the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity immediately.
The incident is the latest in maritime attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Since the outbreak of regional conflict in late February, multiple vessels have been targeted by projectiles, drones, and other threats.
Security analysts warn that such attacks could further destabilise shipping routes and energy markets, as tensions between regional and global powers continue to escalate.
The proximity of the incident to UAE waters underscores the expanding maritime risks in the Gulf.
Investigations into the origin and nature of the projectile are ongoing, with no group or state claiming responsibility so far.