An attack on two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz has resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to eight others, following a strike by Iranian cruise missiles. The tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahyah, which are operated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), were navigating the southern route of the critical waterway when they were hit, according to the UAE Ministry of Defence. An Indian crew member aboard the Mombasa lost his life in the attack, while four of the injured are in serious condition.
The UAE condemned the missile strike, labeling it a grave breach of international law that jeopardizes regional security and the safety of maritime navigation. Both tankers suffered significant damage as a result of the assault. In response, the Maritime Security Centre in Oman reported that 18 crew members from the Al Bahyah have been rescued, though three crew members remain missing.
India, which confirmed that 30 out of the 46 crew members on the affected vessels were Indian nationals, has voiced strong condemnation of the attack. The Indian government expressed its condolences for the loss of life and announced efforts to coordinate with local authorities to provide assistance to those impacted.
This incident has exacerbated tensions in the already volatile region, causing global oil prices to surge to a four-week high amid growing concerns about the security of shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic importance of this waterway, coupled with the recent attack, underscores the fragile stability of the area.