Explosions and fires reported in two oil tankers in Hormuz waterway

Reports have emerged of massive explosions in two oil tankers in the Hormuz waterway. Iran has claimed that these vessels collided with naval mines. This incident is likely to have serious implications for maritime security and the global oil supply.

According to the navy of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), both vessels were attempting to pass through a prohibited sea route. During this, they allegedly collided with naval mines. These vessels include a supertanker. Citing a statement from the public relations office of the IRGC navy, Iran's state news channel Press TV reported that a massive explosion occurred in one tanker, followed by a fire.

The Iranian navy has leveled serious allegations against these vessels. According to the navy, both vessels had turned off their navigation and identification systems. Additionally, these vessels ignored several warnings issued to not enter the prohibited route.

Amidst these developments, the UK Maritime Merchant Operations (UKMTO) has also provided information regarding an attack on a commercial vessel in the Hormuz waterway. In an alert issued by the UKMTO on 1 November, it was stated that they were informed of the incident at approximately 15:09 hours international time. According to the agency, the captain of a commercial vessel sent an emergency message via radio stating that another vessel had been attacked by an unknown object. The UKMTO has advised vessels passing through this route to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Saudi Arabia has also expressed outrage over these attacks on maritime routes. Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the attack on the Qatari gas transport company vessel 'Al Mayeda' in the Arabian Gulf. This vessel is used for the transportation of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). The Saudi Foreign Ministry, in a statement released on the social media platform 'X', stated that incidents jeopardising maritime routes and global energy supplies are unacceptable. Saudi Arabia has shown solidarity with Qatar and appealed for immediate international action to ensure maritime security.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also condemned the targeting of Qatar's vessel Al Mayeda. These incidents have heightened concerns regarding maritime security and energy supplies.

Earlier, on 30 October, an attack was also carried out on a tanker. The UKMTO provided information that on 30 October, an oil tanker was attacked approximately 25 nautical miles northeast of Oman's Khasab city. According to the agency's report, a small boat approached the tanker and attached two explosive devices to the vessel's part above the waterline. Following this attack, a fire broke out in the vessel's engine room, and the tanker ceased operations for some time. However, it was reported that all crew members of the vessel were safe in this incident.