Three commercial vessels were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, raising the total to 16 incidents, as regional conflicts disrupt maritime trade.
Regional conflicts that began on February 28 in the Middle East have brought maritime trade to a standstill. On the night of March 11 to March 12, three more commercial vessels were targeted with unknown munitions around the Strait of Hormuz. The total number of attacks in the region has reached 16, while global markets have focused on the 'energy apocalypse' scenario.
Attacked Vessels and Current Status
According to information obtained from maritime security organizations (UKMTO) and local sources, the vessels that were attacked are as follows:
Mayuree Naree (Thailand): A bulk carrier hit off the coast of Oman experienced a severe fire in its engine room. While 20 crew members were evacuated by the Oman Navy, the shipowner Precious Shipping announced that 3 sailors, believed to be trapped in the engine room, are missing.
ONE Majesty (Liberia/Japan): The container ship that was struck 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai sustained damage to its hull. It was reported that the crew is safe and the vessel is sailing to a safe area under its own power.
Star Gwyneth (Marshall Islands): The ship, which was anchored off the coast of the United Arab Emirates, was hit and a hole was opened above the waterline. No casualties have been reported.
Second Blow in Iraqi Territorial Waters
At the same time, near the oil ports in southern Iraq, two tankers named Safesea Vishnu and Zefyros, which were conducting 'ship-to-ship' transfers, were targeted by explosive-laden boats. It has been confirmed that at least one sailor lost their life in the attack.
Economic Alarm: Oil on the Brink of $200
Warnings from Iranian authorities that 'energy infrastructures in Gulf countries may be targeted' and the fact that insurance costs have exceeded 100% suggest that Brent crude oil prices could see $200 in the near future. Flight cancellations in the region have been extended until the end of March 13, while shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have nearly come to a complete halt.
With the deepening crisis of freight and maritime security in the region, it has been reported that one-third of VLCC-type large tankers have moved to a waiting position.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
