Oil tanker struck by unknown projectile near Strait of Hormuz, fire breaks out

The incident

An oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile on its port side while travelling southbound eight nautical miles east of Limah, Oman, on Monday. The impact caused a fire on board, but no injuries or environmental damage were reported, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The agency said authorities are investigating.

A tanker has reported being hit by an unknown projectile on the port side causing a fire, whilst travelling southbound.

Fragile ceasefire

The attack comes despite a memorandum of understanding signed by the United States and Iran on 17 June to end the Middle East conflict and reopen the strategic waterway. Maritime traffic had resumed after the deal, but Iran insists there will be no return to pre-war arrangements. Tehran has warned vessels against using routes outside a single corridor it has authorised along its own coastline.

Tensions flared again at the end of June when the US bombed Iran after accusing it of attacking two ships. Iran responded by striking Kuwait and Bahrain before both sides agreed to a pause in hostilities. Last weekend, a cargo ship was also attacked off the coast of Yemen.

Strategic waterway

The Strait of Hormuz is the main maritime gateway for energy exports from the Gulf to global markets, especially in Asia. Around 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait each day in 2024, accounting for roughly one-fifth of global crude consumption, according to the US Energy Information Administration.

Timeline of events