At least three container ships came under gunfire on Wednesday while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to maritime security sources and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incidents mark a significant escalation in tensions along one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
The attacks follow new restrictions imposed by Iran on vessels navigating the strait. Iranian authorities introduced the measures in retaliation for joint U.S.-Israeli bombardments, and later in response to a U.S. blockade targeting Iranian ports.
A Liberia-flagged container ship sustained damage to its bridge after being struck by gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades northeast of Oman. According to the UKMTO, the ship’s master reported being approached by a gunboat operated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) before the vessel was fired upon.
Despite the attack, all crew members were reported safe, with no fire or environmental damage resulting from the incident. Maritime security sources indicated that three individuals were aboard the attacking gunboat.
The master of the Greek-operated vessel also noted that no prior radio contact had been made before the confrontation. The ship had reportedly been granted permission to transit the strait before the incident occurred.
In a separate incident, a second container vessel, sailing under a Panama flag, was fired upon approximately eight nautical miles west of Iran. The ship was not damaged, and all crew members were confirmed safe, according to the UKMTO.
A third vessel, also Liberia-flagged, came under fire in a similar location while exiting the Strait of Hormuz. Although the ship was not hit, it temporarily halted in the water following the incident. Maritime security sources confirmed that its crew remained unharmed.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital energy corridors, handling roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before hostilities escalated on February 28. The recent incidents have heightened concerns about the security of international shipping and the potential for further disruptions in global energy supplies.
Maritime authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as tensions in the region remain high.
Boluwatife Enome
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