Vessel reportedly struck by unknown projectile in Strait of Hormuz: UK maritime agency

By Omer Asur Cuhadar and Rania Abushamala

ISTANBUL (AA) - A vessel was reportedly struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, said the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) center.

In a warning notice, the agency said the master of a merchant vessel had relayed a Mayday distress call received over VHF Channel 16, reporting that another vessel had been hit.

The notice listed the incident time as 1509GMT on Nov. 1.

UKMTO advised vessels to “transit with caution and report any suspicious activity” while authorities investigate.

The agency did not identify the vessel reportedly struck or provide details on casualties, damage or the source of the projectile.

October saw a series of attacks on commercial tankers in the Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, some of which caused fires and damage to vessels, according to maritime security reports.

Concerns over shipping security have intensified amid continuing tensions between the US and Iran, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic passage for global oil and gas exports.

The US and Israel launched a war against Iran on Feb. 28 before a ceasefire was reached in April. Fighting between the US and Iran resumed in July amid stalled diplomatic efforts to end the war.

Rania R.a. Abushamala