A cargo ship sailing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz came under attack after Iranian forces allegedly fired at the vessel, according to two US officials cited by Reuters. The incident has raised fresh concerns over maritime security in one of the world's busiest oil shipping routes, despite recent efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran.
The vessel had earlier reported being struck by a projectile on its starboard side while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred about 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit port in Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which monitors shipping security in the region. Initial reports indicated damage to the ship, but no casualties were immediately reported.
Two US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that Iran was responsible for firing on the cargo ship. The officials did not disclose what type of weapon was used or provide additional operational details. Iran had not immediately commented on the allegations.
The attack comes at a sensitive time, with the United States and Iran attempting to stabilise relations following months of regional conflict. The incident has cast fresh doubt over the durability of the fragile truce and renewed fears about the security of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy supplies.
Following the attack, the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) temporarily suspended its voluntary ship evacuation and escort initiative through the Strait of Hormuz to reassess safety conditions. The programme, launched earlier this week, was intended to help hundreds of stranded vessels and thousands of seafarers safely exit the region using designated maritime corridors.
The latest incident also triggered fresh volatility in energy markets. Oil prices climbed by more than 2 per cent as traders weighed the risk of renewed disruptions to crude shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a fifth of the world's oil supply typically passes.
Although shipping traffic through the Strait had begun recovering after the recent ceasefire, maritime authorities continue to warn that the route remains highly vulnerable to security threats. Many commercial vessels are still avoiding the centre of the waterway and are instead navigating closer to Omani waters as a precaution.
