Maritime Attack Hormuz; An explosion has been reported on a commercial ship near the Strait of Hormuz. British maritime officials described it as an attack by an unknown projectile. The incident occurred near Sharjah, about 15 nautical miles north of the coast of the United Arab Emirates. This information was given by UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
UKMTO said the explosion occurred near a bulk carrier, which was passing through the important shipping lane of the Gulf. The ship’s captain confirmed that the explosion occurred very close to the ship. Officials said the ship’s crew were not injured and all were safe. The agency advised all vessels to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.
no one took responsibility
The source of the projectiles has not yet been identified and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident has happened at a time when tension is at its peak in the area. Recently, Iran has targeted ships belonging to America and Israel, which has caused massive disruption in the supply of oil and gas. This waterway controls about one-fifth of the global energy supply.
US warning and international response
This attack happened at a time when US President Donald Trump had given a strong statement regarding keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. In a social media post, he warned that if Iran did not open the waterway without threat, the US would target Iranian infrastructure. He had said, ‘If Iran does not completely open the Strait of Hormuz, then America will attack their various power plants, starting with the largest.’
G7 ministers’ reaction
In view of this growing maritime threat, G7 foreign ministers said they are prepared to take action if necessary to secure energy supplies. They also said that they stand with our partner countries in the region and consider the attacks carried out by Iran and its affiliated groups as aggressive actions.