Nine commercial vessels hit in Middle East Gulf attacks so far
Three seafarers have already lost their lives as shipping is dragged into regional conflict
Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz have not stopped vessels transiting the chokepoint, but at least two have been attacked while making the journey
AT LEAST nine vessels have been attacked since the US and Israel first began strikes on Iran on Saturday, February 28.
Three seafarers and two port workers have lost their lives as shipping bears the brunt of the escalating regional conflict.
Two were killed in an attack on 11,262 dwt chemical and oil tanker Skylight (IMO: 9330020), while another was killed on Marshall Islands-flagged, 74,032 dwt crude oil tanker MKD Vyom (IMO: 9284386).
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has reiterated that the crucial Strait of Hormuz is under Iranian control, and vowed that any US, Israel or European-linked vessel transiting through will be struck.
This has not translated into an official closure, and vessels have still transited the chokepoint, but some have been hit on voyage.
Malta-flagged 1,740 teu Safeen Prestige (IMO: 9593517) was hit above the waterline while heading eastbound through the strait at 1109 hrs on March 4, around two nautical miles north of Salib, Oman.
UKMTO said the attack resulted in an engine fire on board. The crew evacuated the vessel and have all been accounted for.
There are already clear examples of vessels being targeted for perceived US links by Iran. US-flagged product tanker Stena Imperative (IMO: 9666077) was struck by projectiles while at port in Bahrain in an attack that also killed a port worker. The vessel is part of the US’ Tanker Security Program.
The IRGC also claimed responsibility for striking the Honduras-flagged Athe Nova (IMO: 9188116) on March 2. Iranian media claimed the tanker was supplying fuel to US Navy vessels.
International Maritime Organization secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez said he was “deeply concerned” for the safety and well-being of the 20,000 seafarers affected in the region.
“Beyond the economic impact of these alarming attacks, it is a humanitarian issue. No attack on innocent seafarers is ever justified,” he said.
“IMO is ready to work with all stakeholders to help ensure the safety and well-being of the seafarers affected.
“I reiterate my call for all shipping companies to exercise maximum caution when operating in the affected region.
“I urge all parties to intensify efforts to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible, so that shipping can return to regular operations.”
