Attacks on ships escalate in Gulf as tankers set ablaze near Iraq

DUBAI: Explosive-laden boats believed to be linked to Iran attacked two fuel tankers in Iraq waters, setting them ablaze and killing one crew member, maritime security and port officials said.

The attacks targeted the Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and the Zefyros after they had loaded fuel cargoes in Iraq. Rescue teams recovered the body of a foreign crew member from the water while search operations continued for missing seafarers.

The latest incidents mark a major escalation in the maritime dimension of the conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel, raising the number of vessels struck in the region to at least 16 since hostilities began on February 28.

Shipping traffic across the Gulf and through the Strait of Hormuz — which carries around one-fifth of the world’s oil supply — has slowed dramatically as tensions escalate.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Thai-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree was hit by two projectiles while sailing through the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire and severe damage to its engine room, according to its operator Precious Shipping.

Three crew members were reported missing and believed to be trapped in the engine room, while the remaining 20 sailors were evacuated safely to Oman.

A statement carried by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps via Tasnim news agency suggested the ship had been fired upon by Iranian fighters.

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Two other vessels also sustained damage in separate incidents in Gulf waters.

The Japan-flagged container ship ONE Majesty suffered minor damage from an unknown projectile while anchored about 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras Al Khaimah. Its owner Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and charterer Ocean Network Express said all crew members were safe and the vessel remained operational.

Meanwhile, the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Star Gwyneth was struck by another projectile roughly 50 miles northwest of Dubai, damaging its hull but causing no injuries to crew members, according to maritime risk firm Vanguard.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned that ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz could be targeted as tensions escalate. In response, US President Donald Trump has threatened to intensify attacks if Iran continues to obstruct the vital shipping route.

However, the United States Navy has so far declined requests from shipping companies for naval escorts through the strait, citing the high risk of further attacks.