Two supertankers carrying Saudi crude oil were struck by unknown projectiles within minutes of each other while transiting outbound through the Strait of Hormuz late on Monday, according to shipping intelligence and tracking firms Marisks and Kpler.
Incidents Overview
The Saudi Arabian-flagged very large crude carrier (VLCC) Sidr was struck by unknown projectiles about 16.6 nautical miles northeast of Khasab, Oman at approximately 1952 UTC (GMT). Minutes later, the Liberian-flagged VLCC Senegal Prosperity was reportedly hit by three unknown projectiles approximately 17 nautical miles east of Khasab. All crew members aboard both vessels were reported safe.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency (UKMTO) reported three projectiles striking a tanker in the same location as it sailed out of the Strait of Hormuz, in what appeared to be the same incident. No casualties or environmental impact have been reported, according to UKMTO.
Details of the Attacks
The tankers each loaded 2 million barrels of Saudi crude at the Juaymah terminal last week, Kpler data showed. Saudi Aramco resumed oil loadings and sales from inside the strait in August, following a period of reduced activity due to ongoing tensions in the region.
The near-simultaneous incidents represent a further escalation in the threat environment within the Omani corridor, Marisks said. Iranian and U.S. blockades of the Strait of Hormuz have sharply curbed energy exports from the Gulf as both countries have attempted to control the waterway.
Regional Context
The strait carried about a fifth of global oil supplies before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran more than six months ago. Efforts by mediators including Qatar and Oman to broker a deal to reopen the strait have not reached a conclusion.
On Tuesday, Iranian media reported that a Saudi oil tanker was stopped while transiting through the southern corridor of the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices rose on Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened additional strikes against Iran, following the first exchanges of fire since late July.
What this Means for Operators
The attacks highlight the increasing risks faced by vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Operators must remain vigilant and implement enhanced security measures to safeguard their crews and cargo. Regular communication with maritime authorities and adherence to safety advisories is crucial to mitigate potential threats.
With tensions high and attacks escalating, shipping companies must consider alternative routes or implement additional security protocols to ensure the safety of their vessels and crews. The situation underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation between regional stakeholders to restore maritime security in the strait.
