Third Commercial Vessel Reportedly Attacked in Strait of Hormuz Within 24 Hours

Tehran: Security concerns have resurfaced in the Strait of Hormuz after a third commercial vessel was reportedly attacked within the past 24 hours. The latest incident was reported on Tuesday evening, highlighting that attacks on ships navigating one of the world's busiest maritime routes continue despite a temporary understanding aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran.

The latest update was issued by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the British naval organization responsible for monitoring commercial shipping in the region. Earlier reports indicated that a Qatari LNG carrier had come under attack, followed shortly by damage to a Saudi Arabian crude oil tanker.

According to the UKMTO, the commercial tanker sustained damage after being struck by an unidentified missile or projectile. No injuries have been reported among the crew, and there are currently no signs of an oil spill or other environmental pollution. As no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the agency has urged all vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to remain on high alert and immediately report any suspicious activity.

Earlier, officials confirmed that Iran had carried out a drone attack overnight on the Qatari LNG carrier AL Rekkayat. The drone reportedly struck above the ship's engine room, triggering a major fire and heavy smoke. Given that the vessel was carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG), security officials had warned of the risk of a catastrophic explosion. However, all crew members were evacuated safely. International media reported that the ship's captain transmitted an emergency radio message stating that a drone had struck the engine room, causing the fire.

Qatar strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an unacceptable assault on international shipping and global energy supplies, as well as a violation of international law. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari called on Iran to immediately cease actions that threaten regional security and said Tehran bears full responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, Iran is reportedly preparing to resume peace talks with the United States following the conclusion of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's mourning procession.