UAE says Iranian missiles struck oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, one sailor killed

One Indian sailor was killed and eight others were injured when two oil tankers, the Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were hit by Iranian cruise missiles in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence reported the attack occurred in Omani territorial waters on Tuesday, causing material damage and fires aboard the vessels.

The ministry condemned the incident as a "blatant attack" and stated that the UAE reserves "its full right to respond to this escalation." It also affirmed the country's preparedness to confront any threats and take necessary measures to protect its security and stability. Of the eight wounded crew members, four sustained serious injuries; six were Indian nationals and two were Ukrainian.

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The ministry condemned what it called a "blatant attack" and said the UAE retained "its full right to respond to this escalation."

Separately, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency reported a tanker being hit by an unknown projectile northeast of Qalhat, Oman. The agency stated the master reported the projectile struck the engine room, but all crew were safe. It remains unconfirmed if this refers to the same incident reported by the UAE.

These attacks heighten tensions in the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies. The incidents follow recent escalations between the U.S. and Iran, including U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of reinstating a blockade on Iranian shipping and warnings of further military action. Iran has dismissed the U.S. role in the waterway's future. Prior to recent conflicts, the strait handled about a fifth of the world's oil and gas traffic daily.

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The ministry added that the UAE remained fully prepared to deal with any threats and was taking all necessary measures to respond firmly to any attempts to undermine the country's security and stability.