Saudi Oil Tankers Attacked in Strait of Hormuz
Two Saudi oil tankers were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday night. The incidents, which occurred within minutes of each other, represent a further escalation of tensions in the region. According to shipping intelligence and tracking firms Marisks and Kpler, the tankers were struck by unknown projectiles while transiting through the Omani corridor.
The Saudi Arabian-flagged very large crude carrier Sidr was hit about 16.6 nautical miles northeast of Khasab, Oman at around 1952 UTC (GMT). Minutes later, the Liberian-flagged VLCC Senegal Prosperity was reportedly struck by three unknown projectiles approximately 17 nautical miles east of Khasab.
All crew members on board were reported safe. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway that carries about a fifth of global oil supplies. Iran and the US have both imposed blockades on the strait, which has sharply curbed energy exports from the Gulf.