Two fuel tankers were attacked in Iraqi waters yesterday by Iranian explosive-laden boats, leaving one crew member dead and escalating the ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israeli forces, according to port and maritime security sources. The incidents follow previous strikes that have now affected at least 16 vessels in the Gulf since hostilities began.
The tankers targeted were the Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and the Zefyros, both carrying fuel cargoes loaded in Iraq. Iraqi port officials confirmed that rescue teams recovered the body of a foreign crew member while searching for others reported missing. The ownership and commercial operators of the vessels include Safesea Transport Group, Zefyros Trading S.A., and Cygnus Tankers Limited, with inquiries ongoing.
Shipping in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about a fifth of global oil, has nearly stalled since airstrikes on Iran by the US and Israel began on February 28, driving oil prices to levels not seen since 2022.
Earlier yesterday, the Thai-flagged Mayuree Naree dry bulk vessel was struck by two projectiles of unknown origin in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire in its engine room. Three crew members were reported missing and are believed trapped inside, while the remaining 20 were safely evacuated to Oman. Images from the Thai navy showed smoke rising from the vessel. Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility, marking the first direct engagement by their forces in the conflict, which had previously relied on missile and drone attacks.
In addition, the Japan-flagged container ship ONE Majesty and the Marshall Islands-flagged Star Gwyneth sustained minor damage from unknown projectiles near the UAE. Both vessels’ crews were unharmed, and the ships remain operational.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned that any ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz may be targeted, while the US Navy has yet to provide military escorts due to high risk, although President Donald Trump has stated the US is prepared to offer naval protection if necessary.
The attacks highlight the increasing danger to global shipping and the strain on oil transport in one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
