Strait of Hormuz Attack: Malta-Flagged Oil Tanker Struck by IRGC Missiles Despite US Naval Escort
A Malta-flagged oil products tanker came under missile attack by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz, forcing its crew to abandon ship after an onboard fire broke out just miles off the coast of Oman. The vessel, identified as the 2025-built Kavomaleas, was struck approximately eight nautical miles northwest of Kumzar, Oman, according to maritime security operational alerts issued by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and private security firm Vanguard.
The attack occurred at approximately 19:24 UTC, triggering an explosion on board the Panamax-sized tanker, managed by Athens-based Dynacom Tankers Management. Following the strike, the ship’s Company Security Officer (CSO) confirmed that the crew safely abandoned the burning vessel and were recovered by a responding tugboat. The unmanned tanker was left drifting in the narrow shipping corridor as emergency tugs moved in to battle the flames.
Crew Rescued as Vessel Drifts Ablaze
The UKMTO reported in its advisory, “The vessel was struck by an unknown projectile, resulting in a fire on board. All crew members have been safely evacuated, and no environmental contamination or oil spill has been detected at this stage.” The incident highlights the escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where commercial vessels are increasingly being targeted for allegedly violating Iranian territorial waters.
IRGC Escalates Targeting of Blackout Transit Ships
In a statement broadcast shortly after the strike, state-linked Iranian military channels claimed responsibility, asserting that the IRGC targeted vessels navigating what Tehran termed an “unauthorized southern route” through the strait without broadcasting active tracking data. Iranian military sources confirmed that its forces engaged multiple commercial ships operating with disabled transponders, claiming two tankers suffered disabling explosions after ignoring verbal warnings to halt.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of maritime trade in the region, particularly as tensions between Iran and the West continue to escalate. The US Navy has been actively escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, but this attack suggests that even with military protection, commercial ships remain vulnerable to Iranian aggression.
Context: Strait of Hormuz and Global Energy Markets
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global energy markets, as it connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. The strait is approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) wide at its narrowest point and is used by tankers carrying oil and liquefied natural gas from the Middle East to destinations around the world. The region’s significance in global energy markets cannot be overstated, with over 20% of the world’s crude oil exports passing through the strait.
As tensions continue to escalate between Iran and the West, the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint for maritime security concerns. With multiple commercial vessels already targeted by Iranian forces this year, the incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation among nations to ensure the safe passage of global energy supplies.
Original Article: Iranian IRGC Strikes Maltese Oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Despite US Naval Escort – 247 Ureports — 247Ureports