Recent attacks on vessels in the Middle East disrupt shipping without clear targeting, prompting diplomatic talks for safe passage.
Attacks on vessels in the Middle East Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz since late February show no clear pattern of targeting by type, flag, or national affiliation, reports London's Lloyd's List.
Data from Lloyd's List Intelligence indicates that 16 ships have been hit, including nine tankers and six dry cargo vessels, with more than half of them laden. Analysts suggest that the strikes appear calibrated to disrupt commercial shipping rather than focus on specific operators.
India and China have held talks with Tehran to facilitate safe passage for their ships. India's foreign minister, S. Jaishankar, stated that two Indian-flagged gas tankers were permitted through the strait after negotiations.
Between March 1 and 6, 10 vessels were attacked, primarily in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman. Six more were hit between March 11 and 13, five of which were in the Gulf. The Thailand-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree was struck by projectiles while transiting the strait, resulting in a fire in its engine room.
Only one of the targeted ships, the chemical tanker Skylight, is sanctioned and linked to Iran's shadow fleet. Operators of the vessels hit include companies from nine countries, with most ships operated by UAE firms, followed by US and Greek operators.
Risk Intelligence analyst Dirk Siebels remarked that the attacks have been 'pretty random so far to underline the threat and that nobody is really safe.' The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) noted that the campaign appears focused on operational disruption and creating uncertainty across maritime traffic flows.
