The UN International Maritime Organisation (IMO) said verification work continues following recent reports of attacks plus security warnings issued to shipping. IMO said awareness exists of reports, but no further details have been confirmed, while caution guidance remains in place for the area.
The internationally recognised maritime safety portal United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker was struck by unknown projectiles north of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, on May 4, while a bulk carrier was attacked by multiple small craft near Iran on May 3. Radio instructions were also issued to other vessels, directing movement away from anchorages, reflecting an increasingly volatile security environment.
Since late February, at least 41 incidents affecting vessels operating in or around the Arabian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, plus the Gulf of Oman have been reported to UKMTO.
Iran claimed on Monday that a US naval vessel was hit, preventing entry into the strait, while US authorities denied any strike. Late on Sunday, President Donald Trump posted that support would be provided to help stranded ships leave the strait, where vessels have reportedly remained stuck for months.
IMO said contingency planning is being coordinated with the shipping industry, including a possible safe evacuation framework for vessels plus crews caught in the conflict zone. About 800 ships engaged in international trade could be affected, with an average of 25 crew members per vessel.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
