Police authorities have seized over 2.6 tonnes of cocaine in the Atlantic Ocean near Portugal, valued at approximately €500 million. The drugs were found on a speedboat used by smugglers to retrieve cargo from larger ships. Four individuals were arrested, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in European waters.
The inauguration of the new Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) building was officiated today by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Funded by Japan, the center enhances the Maldives’ maritime emergency response. Notable attendees included Japan’s Ambassador Ishigami Rumiko, who reaffirmed Japan’s support for Maldives’ developmental initiatives and Coast Guard services.
The cargo vessel Golden Leo sank off Odesa after being damaged by Russian shelling a week prior. Carrying corn from Chornomorsk, the ship lost nine crew members, with eight rescued. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack as a breach of international maritime law, highlighting the escalating dangers in the Black Sea.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has accused Ukraine of attacking an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, resulting in one sailor’s death. Tehran summoned a Ukrainian diplomat, condemning the incident as a violation of the UN Charter. Ukraine claims its strikes targeted vessels facilitating military shipments between Iran and Russia.
US Central Command has upheld its maritime blockade on Iran, redirecting 12 commercial vessels attempting to breach it. Two ships were disabled for non-compliance, while troops boarded two others to ensure adherence. These actions reflect ongoing efforts to maintain maritime security and prevent unauthorized activities in a geopolitically sensitive region.
Qatar will resume normal maritime traffic starting Sunday after a temporary suspension due to US-Iran tensions. The Ministry of Transport confirmed that all operations within Qatar’s waters will proceed as usual, urging adherence to safety protocols. This decision follows heightened hostilities and aims to stabilize regional trade and shipping.
Yemeni authorities in Sanaa have denied rumors of a blockade on the Bab al-Mandab strait. Mohammed Abdulsalam stated there is no closure, only a maritime ban on Saudi Arabia in response to ongoing sieges. He criticized Saudi involvement in damaging Sanaa International Airport since 2015, countering claims of a blockade.
On July 24, 2026, Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes in Yemen’s Hodeida province, targeting Houthi-controlled sites. This military action followed the Houthis’ maritime blockade affecting Saudi shipping. Reports indicated strikes on telecommunications facilities and Kamaran Island, though casualty details were unclear. The situation escalated after Houthi attacks on Saudi vessels.
A tanker with 14 crew members was detained off Selangor for allegedly anchoring without permission. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency reported the vessel was intercepted during a routine patrol. The captain, unable to provide necessary approvals, faces investigation under maritime laws. Authorities stress the importance of securing proper permits.
The death toll from the capsizing of a state ferry off Guyana’s coast has risen to 72, with ongoing recovery efforts. Of the estimated 179 on board, 76 were rescued. Prime Minister Mark Phillips pledged support for affected families, while authorities launched a criminal investigation into the incident.
On Thursday, President Trump warned of potential military action against Iran following Houthi strikes on Saudi oil tankers. He labeled the Houthis as Iranian proxies and emphasized accountability for Tehran. The resurgence of Houthi attacks, involving ballistic missiles and drones, raises concerns about escalating tensions and threats to vital shipping routes.
The energy trade in the Middle East faces renewed challenges after attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants on Red Sea tankers. Analysts, including Lloyd’s List senior risk analyst Bridget Diakun, warn of a shift from normalization to uncertainty, impacting maritime operations and global oil trade significantly. Traffic in the region has plummeted.
German engineering firm Sonplas has unveiled explosion-proof thermal chambers designed for testing fuel and energy system components in hazardous environments. With a temperature range of -60°C to 180°C, these chambers ensure safety and precision while validating equipment like injectors and pumps, addressing the growing demand for alternative fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia.
Saudi Aramco is offering additional crude cargoes from Egypt’s Sidi Kerir port due to rising threats from the Houthi movement against Saudi shipping. This strategic move aims to enhance market flexibility and secure supplies for term buyers, as security concerns prompt oil tankers to alter routes toward the Suez Canal.
The General Transport Authority reported an attack on the Saudi commercial vessel “ENCELIA” in the Red Sea, resulting in a fire at the ship’s front. Fortunately, all crew members are safe. The authority condemned the incident as a serious violation of international laws, emphasizing the ongoing risks in maritime operations in the region.
