Iran hits commercial ships in Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate

Several commercial vessels have been struck in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies.

Reports on Wednesday indicated that projectiles hit a number of merchant ships navigating the narrow shipping lane that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.

One of the affected vessels, a Thai-flagged cargo ship identified as Mayuree Naree, reportedly suffered significant damage after being struck. The impact triggered a fire on board and forced the crew to abandon sections of the vessel while emergency assistance was sought.

Maritime security officials said other ships operating near the waters off the United Arab Emirates and Oman also reported explosions or projectile strikes in the area.

The attacks have been widely attributed to forces linked to Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, although Iranian authorities have not issued a detailed public statement confirming responsibility.

The latest incidents have heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where military activity has increased in recent days amid a widening confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

Security analysts warn that further attacks on shipping could severely disrupt global trade. The Strait of Hormuz is regarded as one of the most critical maritime corridors in the world, with roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passing through the waterway daily.

Following the incidents, several shipping companies reportedly advised their vessels to exercise extreme caution when transiting the area, while some operators began reviewing alternative routes to reduce risk.

Naval forces from Western and regional countries have also increased patrols in the Gulf to safeguard commercial shipping and prevent any attempt to block the strait.

Energy markets reacted nervously to the developments, with fears that a prolonged disruption in the waterway could tighten global oil supplies and push up prices.

Maritime security agencies said investigations were ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the strikes and assess the damage to the affected vessels.