Hong Kong-Flagged Tanker Hit in Strait of Hormuz

According to maritime security sources, Iranian forces appear to have hit another tanker on the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz.

The incident

The incident on the Hong Kong-flagged tanker happened on Friday. The vessel was struck by a projectile at a position about six nautical miles off the coast of Oman, while outbound on the east side of the strait, reports Vanguard Tech.

The projectile struck the port bow at approximately 0230 hours local time. No crew injuries were reported, but the impact damaged a ballast tank and caused a cargo leak.

The vessel continued its voyage and reached the anchorage at Fujairah (LOCODE: AEFJR), where it awaited a damage inspection. An investigation into the cause is underway. UKMTO has confirmed the attack, but is yet to reveal the vessel's name.

The attack comes amid an tense security situation in the strait. Iran declared a complete closure of the waterway last week and is believed to be attempting to enforce the shutdown.

IMO Secretary calls for moratorium

To enforce its own blockade on Iranian ports, the U.S. military has been conducting its own strikes. Last week, U.S. Central Command struck three tankers in three days, including the Settebello (IMO: 9162916) in which three Indian nationals were killed.

U.S. forces continue to operate a version of the "Project Freedom" overwatch programme for foreign-flagged shipping in the strait.

IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez has called for a moratorium on transit attempts through the Strait of Hormuz.

"Seafarers must not be exposed to conditions where the risks are known, significant, and clearly beyond mitigation," he said.