Two oil tankers were reportedly attacked by explosive-laden unmanned surface vessels in Iraqi waters, igniting massive fires and resulting in the death of one crew member. The incidents occurred late on Wednesday night in the Gulf near Iraq, specifically targeting the Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and the Zefyros, both of which had recently loaded fuel in Iraq, according to statements from Iraqi port officials.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with local teams recovering the body of a foreign crew member from the water. The specific vessel associated with this individual has not yet been determined. Additionally, it has been reported that the Zefyros is registered in Malta, with an Iraqi port security source providing a list of its crew members for identification purposes.

Iraqi Officials Call for Sovereignty Protection

The tankers were said to be carrying crude oil sourced from the Umm Qasr port located in Basra Province, and were attacked shortly after departing. According to reports from Iraqi officials, these assaults represent a significant violation of the nation’s sovereignty. They have labeled the incidents as acts of sabotage occurring within Iraq’s territorial waters.

Concerns Over Unmanned Surface Vessels and Sea Mines

Current intelligence indicates that Iran may have employed unmanned surface vessels in the attacks, a tactic that has proven effective for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. This development coincides with Iran’s reported blockage of oil shipments transiting through the vital Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly one-fifth of global oil supply. Amid the ongoing tensions related to the conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran, there have also been unconfirmed reports that Iran has deployed multiple mines in the strait.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Thai-flagged Mayuree Naree, a dry bulk carrier, sustained damage from “two projectiles of unknown origin” while navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. The incident led to a fire and compromised the ship’s engine room. Three crew members are currently reported missing and are believed to be trapped within the engine compartment. The shipping company is coordinating with authorities to facilitate their rescue, while the remaining 20 crew members have been safely evacuated to Oman.

Incidents Involving Other Vessels

In a separate incident on the same day, the IRGC claimed responsibility for firing upon the Mayuree Naree, marking a noteworthy escalation in direct engagement tactics. Additionally, the Japanese-flagged ONE Majesty experienced minor damage due to an unidentified projectile while anchored 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras al-Khaimah in the UAE. Its owners confirmed that while the hull sustained some damage, all crew members onboard are safe, and the vessel remains operational.

Another vessel, the Marshall Islands-flagged Star Gwyneth, was also struck by an unidentified projectile approximately 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai. The ship’s hull was damaged in the hold area, but no injuries were reported, and operations continue without interruption. Maritime security firms have noted these incidents with concern regarding the rising frequency of attacks in the region.

US Navy Stance on Maritime Security

Despite the uptick in maritime threats, the US Navy has declined multiple requests from the shipping industry for military escorts through the Strait of Hormuz, citing infeasibility due to the high risk of further attacks. This decision reflects the prevailing tensions and complex dynamics in the Persian Gulf, which are closely monitored by international maritime entities.

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