MUSCAT, OMAN An oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile in the Omani route of the Strait of Hormuz on August 24, damaging its engine room and leaving the vessel disabled.
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the master of an oil tanker reported that the vessel had been struck approximately 9 nautical miles northeast of Ash Shishah, Oman.
Maritime security firm information identified the vessel involved as the Liberian-registered Aframax Metro Venetian.
The impact caused damage to the tanker’s engine room and disabled the vessel. The crew was reported safe, and no environmental impact had been reported at the time.
UKMTO advised vessels operating in the area to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity as authorities investigate the incident.
It was the first confirmed attack in more than 48 hours. However, a Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) update issued on August 23 maintained the maritime threat level at Severe.
The JMIC also reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continued attempts to attack and harass commercial shipping, including through unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) overflights.
The incident adds to continuing security concerns for commercial vessels transiting one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
