British maritime agency: Tanker hit by projectile, fire breaks out in Strait of Hormuz

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said it received a report that an oil tanker exiting the Strait of Hormuz was struck on its port side by a projectile of unknown origin, causing a fire on board.

The agency added that the crew members are safe, noting that the extent of the damage and any environmental impact remain unclear.

These developments come amid rising maritime tensions linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which began in February, followed by Iranian attacks on Israel and US targets in the region before a ceasefire was reached in April, according to a report by Anadolu Agency.

In recent days, the region has seen increased risks to shipping, with attacks on commercial vessels and oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf, amid disputes between Washington and Tehran over maritime security and freedom of navigation. The heightened risks have led to a significant decline in shipping traffic through the strait compared to levels before the conflict.