By Blessing Nweke
A liquefied natural gas tanker caught fire after being struck by a projectile while traveling through the Strait of Hormuz early Tuesday, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), raising fresh concerns over security in one of the world’s most important shipping routes.
The UK MTO said the vessel was hit near Limah, Oman, as it traveled south from the Persian Gulf toward the Gulf of Oman. The projectile struck the port side of the tanker, igniting a fire. Authorities said there was no environmental damage from the incident, and an investigation is underway.
Iranian state television reported that the tanker had ignored warnings about using approved navigation routes through the strait and implied that Iranian forces carried out the strike. However, Tehran has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor through which a significant share of the world’s oil and natural gas exports passes. Iran has repeatedly insisted that vessels use routes approved by its military and has warned that foreign interference in the waterway would be met with a strong response.
The attack comes as diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran remain stalled. Washington is seeking an agreement to reopen the strait fully, curb Iran’s nuclear activities and secure a lasting end to the conflict that began on Feb. 28.
Meanwhile, Iran continues nationwide funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the war. Crowds gathered Tuesday in the holy city of Qom before his planned burial later this week in Mash had.
Shipping analysts reported that at least 108 vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, underscoring the waterway’s continued importance despite heightened military tensions and security concerns.
Original article
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