An attack on two oil tankers operated by the United Arab Emirates in the Strait of Hormuz has resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to eight others, as reported by the UAE Ministry of Defence. The vessels, named Mombasa and Al Bahyah, were targeted by Iranian cruise missiles while navigating the southern route of this critical maritime corridor.
The Mombasa suffered the loss of an Indian crew member, and among the injured, four individuals are in serious condition. Both ships sustained considerable damage, prompting the UAE to denounce the strike as a grave breach of international law, posing a threat to regional stability and the safety of maritime operations.
Efforts to rescue those onboard were initiated by Oman’s Maritime Security Centre, which successfully saved 18 crew members from the Al Bahyah. However, three individuals remain unaccounted for. In response to the incident, the Indian government, which confirmed that 30 out of the 46 crew members across both vessels were Indian nationals, condemned the attack and offered condolences to the victims’ families. They are collaborating with local authorities to support those affected.
This latest incident has exacerbated tensions in the region, causing a ripple effect that has led to an increase in global oil prices, reaching a four-week high. The security of the shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz remains a significant concern as a result of this attack.