A cargo vessel travelling to India came under attack on Wednesday in a major shipping route in the Gulf region. The strike set part of the ship on fire and forced authorities to launch a rescue mission for the crew.
The incident occurred as the conflict between Iran and the United States continues to intensify.
Later, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for targeting two vessels in the region. According to a statement cited by Iranian media, the forces struck a Liberian-flagged ship and a Thai bulk carrier named Mayuree Naree.
"The Israeli-owned Express Rome ship, flying the Liberian flag, and the container ship Mayuree Naree, were hit by Iranian projectiles and stopped after ignoring the warnings of the IRGC naval forces," the statement said.
Strike Occurs in the Strait of Hormuz
The Thai-registered bulk carrier was sailing through the Strait of Hormuz when the attack occurred. The vessel was on its way to Kandla Port.
The ship had earlier left Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates and was passing through the narrow shipping corridor when an unknown projectile struck it.
The vessel, named Mayuree Naree, is a 178-metre bulk carrier with a capacity of about 30,000 tonnes. It is owned by Precious Shipping.
Fire Breaks Out After Impact
Officials said the strike caused a fire on the ship. The Royal Thai Navy reported that thick smoke rose from the vessel’s hull and upper structure after the impact.
Images released by the navy showed life rafts floating in the sea as crew members evacuated the burning ship.
Rescue Operation Launched
Soon after the attack, the Royal Navy of Oman began a rescue operation.
Authorities said rescuers saved 20 crew members who had abandoned the vessel. However, search teams are still looking for three missing sailors.
Officials later managed to control the fire on board, though the full extent of the damage has not yet been confirmed.
“The specific details and cause of the attack are currently under investigation,” the Thai navy said.
Maritime Security Concerns Rise
Earlier in the day, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a cargo ship had been hit by an unidentified projectile around 11 nautical miles north of Oman. The strike caused a fire on the vessel.
The agency warned ships travelling through the area to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity while authorities continue their investigation.
Key Global Oil Route Under Threat
The attack highlights growing security concerns in the Gulf region. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping corridors and handles about one-fifth of global oil trade.
The latest escalation has already disrupted cargo movement in the area. Shipping traffic through the route has dropped significantly, and several vessels are now avoiding the region due to safety concerns.