Strait of Hormuz Tanker Reports Unknown Projectile Hit, All Crew Safe

An oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz says an unknown projectile struck its left side. The crew is safe, and an investigation is under way, according to UKMTO.

Strait of Hormuz tanker reports a projectile hit

A Strait of Hormuz tanker has reported that a projectile struck the side of the ship. The crew is safe, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, known as UKMTO. The agency shared the update on its website.

What UKMTO said about the incident

“UKMTO received a report of an incident four nautical miles (about 7.4 kilometers, editor’s note) east of Oman. The captain of the oil tanker reported that an unknown projectile hit the left side. All crew members are safe,” the statement on the agency’s website says.

Investigation and safety advice

The incident is now under investigation. UKMTO advises ships to pass through the area with caution. It also asks crews to report any suspicious activity they notice.

Shipping traffic was already under strain

On Tuesday, Reuters reported, citing vessel tracking data, that shipping in the Strait of Hormuz worsened further early in the week. The cause was rising tensions in the Middle East. The latest Strait of Hormuz tanker report came against that tense backdrop.