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Tanker struck by multiple projectiles off Qatar in the Gulf, UKMTO reports
Overview
A merchant tanker has been hit by multiple projectiles north of Qatar in the Gulf, resulting in reported casualties, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency. Maritime intelligence firm Vanguard identified the vessel as the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged oil and chemical tanker Acers. The incident marks the first reported attack on a ship this far west of the Strait of Hormuz since September, amid ongoing maritime security challenges in the region linked to the conflict involving Iran.
Key points
- A tanker was struck by multiple projectiles 51 nautical miles from Madinat al-Shamal in the Gulf, with casualties reported.
- Maritime intelligence firm Vanguard identified the affected vessel as the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged oil and chemical tanker Acers.
- This is the first reported attack on a ship this far west of the Strait of Hormuz since September.
- Vanguard also reported a fire on board another tanker, likely the Marshall Islands-flagged Dhalkut, in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday.
- Merchant vessels have faced repeated attacks in the region since the conflict involving Iran began, impacting global oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.