The UK Maritime Trade Operations centre (UKMTO) has reported that three tankers were struck in the Strait of Hormuz within a 24-hour period, marking a significant escalation in the waterway that serves as a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments.
On Tuesday afternoon, UKMTO said a tanker sustained "minor structural damage" after being hit by a drone while transiting the strait. The agency noted no casualties or environmental impact, and the vessel was "continuing to its next port of call." Just 40 minutes earlier, another tanker was reportedly struck by an "unidentified projectile," also suffering structural damage without casualties.
Earlier on Tuesday morning, a third ship reported being hit by an "unknown projectile on the port side," causing a fire. That vessel was sailing south out of the strait near Limah, Oman. Again, no casualties or environmental damage were recorded.
Iranian State Media Names One Vessel
Iran's Fars state news agency identified one of the ships struck as the Al-Ruqayat, claiming it was targeted after ignoring warnings from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy while using the Omani route through the strait. Tehran has insisted that only its approved passage is safe.
The Strait of Hormuz has long been a flashpoint in US-Iran relations. Tensions spiked in February when the US launched military action against Iran, effectively closing the waterway and disrupting global energy markets. A subsequent ceasefire agreement, signed in June, required Washington to lift its naval blockade and Tehran to reopen the strait while reaffirming it "shall not procure or develop nuclear weapons." The deal gave both sides 60 days to reach a final agreement.
These latest strikes come as diplomatic efforts continue in Doha, where US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have been engaged in talks with Iranian representatives. The incidents also follow a UKMTO threat level increase after a previous tanker attack.
For European observers, the situation is particularly concerning. The European Union relies heavily on energy imports transiting the Strait of Hormuz, and any prolonged disruption could have severe economic consequences for member states from Berlin to Paris. The bloc has maintained a cautious stance, urging restraint from both sides while supporting diplomatic channels.
Analysts note that the repeated attacks suggest a pattern of escalation that could undermine the fragile ceasefire. "Each strike chips away at the credibility of the agreement," said a security expert based in Brussels. "If this continues, we could see a return to the chaos of February."
The UKMTO has advised vessels in the area to proceed with caution as investigations continue. The agency is coordinating with international partners to assess the situation and ensure safe passage for commercial shipping.
