ADNOC Tanker MV Barakah Struck by Two Iranian Drones in Strait of Hormuz

The Panama-flagged tanker MV Barakah was struck by two Iranian drones while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on May 4. The vessel was in ballast at the time and no crew injuries were reported.

The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack as a "flagrant breach" of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and characterised the strike as an act of piracy by the IRGC. The attack marks the first confirmed strike on a UAE national carrier since the ceasefire came into effect.

Damage to the vessel has not been publicly detailed. The vessel's current status and position following the strike have not been confirmed.

The attack occurred as the Strait of Hormuz has seen a resumption of IRGC maritime interdiction activity following an 11-day pause, with two separate attacks recorded on May 3 — one against the bulk carrier Minoan Falcon west of Sirik and another against an unidentified tanker near the Musandam Peninsula.

Authorities are investigating. No independent investigation authority has been confirmed.