Six vessels attacked in Gulf, Strait of Hormuz as war puts merchant ships on front lines
Summary
Explosive-laden Iranian boats attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters, escalating tensions in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israeli forces. At least 16 vessels have been struck since fighting began, disrupting about a fifth of the world's oil supply.
Key Points
- Explosive-laden Iranian boats attacked two fuel tankers in Iraqi waters, killing one crew member and setting vessels ablaze.
- At least 16 ships have been struck in the Gulf region since the conflict between Iran and US-Israeli forces began.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned they would block oil shipments from the Middle East if attacks against Iran continued.
- Shipping in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz has nearly halted, impacting global oil prices and security.
- Multiple vessels from different countries, including those flagged in Marshall Islands, Malta, Thailand, Japan, and Marshall Islands, have sustained damage or attacks.
- Iraq's oil ports have closed following the attacks, while commercial ports remain operational.
