Oil Tanker / Envato Market
by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – Three commercial cargo vessels were struck by projectiles early Wednesday in or near the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the growing threat to global shipping lanes as the war between the United States, Israel and Iran intensifies.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said two vessels were hit while transiting the strait, while a third ship was struck roughly 50 miles off the coast of the United Arab Emirates.
One of the ships caught fire after the attack, forcing its crew to evacuate. Authorities later said the fire was extinguished and most crew members were safe.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps appeared to claim responsibility for one strike involving the Thailand-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, which was damaged north of Oman in the strait. Omani naval forces rescued 20 crew members, though three sailors were reported missing.
Two additional ships were also damaged. The Japan-flagged container vessel One Majesty sustained minor damage near Ras Al Khaimah, while the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Star Gwyneth was struck northwest of Dubai. Crews on both vessels were reported safe.
The attacks came a day after U.S. forces destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels that Washington said were preparing to threaten shipping in the strait.
President Donald Trump warned Tehran that if mines were placed in the waterway and not removed immediately, the military consequences would be severe.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints, carrying about 20% of global energy supplies. Shipping traffic has dropped sharply since the conflict began on Feb. 28, sending shock waves through global energy markets.
Oil prices briefly surged above $115 per barrel earlier this week before easing to around $87.
Iran has vowed to continue targeting economic and shipping interests linked to the United States, Israel and their allies as the regional conflict widens.
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