Late Wednesday night, several commercial vessels sailing in the Gulf region came under attack, raising serious concerns about maritime security and global energy supply. According to reports from Al Jazeera and Reuters, explosive-laden boats believed to be linked to Iran struck two oil tankers in Iraqi waters, causing massive fires and casualties.

BREAKING: Iraq’s oil chief Farhan al-Fartousi says all oil terminal operations are fully suspended after explosive-laden boats attacked two crude tankers at Umm Qasr port in Basra, while commercial ports continue to operate normally.

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— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 12, 2026

The two tankers, Safesea Vishnu and Zefyros, had reportedly loaded fuel cargo from Iraqi ports before the attack. Iraqi port officials confirmed that rescue teams recovered the body of one foreign crew member from the sea while continuing search operations for missing sailors.

Other Ships Also Hit in the Region

The attacks were not limited to Iraqi waters. Several other vessels sailing near the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf region also reported damage from projectiles or explosions.

Iraq’s Ministry of Oil has expressed concern over attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf and called for “the protection of maritime routes”.

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— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 12, 2026

One of the affected ships was the Thai bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, which caught fire after being struck by two unidentified projectiles. The vessel suffered damage to its engine room, and some crew members were trapped during the incident.

Another ship, the container vessel ONE Majesty, reported minor hull damage after a projectile hit it while anchored near the United Arab Emirates. These incidents highlight growing risks for commercial shipping in the Gulf, a route that carries a large portion of the world’s oil and gas.

Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters

The recent attacks are linked to rising tensions between Iran and the United States during the ongoing US–Israeli war on Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that ships passing through the strategic waterway could be targeted. Key concerns raised by the attacks include:

Disruption of global oil and gas shipments
Increased risks for commercial shipping crews
Rising military tensions in the Gulf region
Possible impact on global energy prices

As investigations continue, governments and shipping companies are closely monitoring the situation. Any escalation in the region could further threaten international trade and energy security.