Third tanker hit in Strait of Hormuz within 24 hours as shipping concerns grow

A third tanker was struck by projectiles while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said. The latest attack came less than 24 hours after two other vessels were targeted, raising fresh concerns over shipping security in one of the world's busiest maritime chokepoints.

According to the UKMTO, the latest tanker was hit by an unidentified unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), sustaining minor structural damage. No casualties or environmental impact were reported, and the vessel continued its voyage to its next port.

Earlier, another tanker caught fire after being struck while sailing off the coast of Oman. The projectile reportedly hit the port side of the vessel as it attempted to exit the Strait of Hormuz into the Gulf of Oman.

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A third tanker also suffered structural damage in a separate attack, though no injuries were reported.

Iran says tanker ignored warnings

Iranian state television reported that the liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker was attacked after ignoring warnings issued by Iranian authorities. However, Tehran did not directly claim responsibility for the strike.

Iran has repeatedly stated that only the maritime route approved by its authorities through the Strait of Hormuz is safe. Western officials have previously suspected Tehran of targeting ships using alternative routes closer to Oman's coastline.

Concerns over global shipping

The fresh attacks have renewed fears of disruptions to commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas exports. The incidents come as several countries were hoping for a return to normal maritime traffic following recent tensions between the United States and Iran.

US-Iran talks remain on hold

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran appeared to remain stalled.

According to reports, talks are expected to resume only after the burial of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the start of the conflict. During his funeral, mourners were reported to have chanted slogans calling for the death of US President Donald Trump.