A Qatari LNG tanker, the Al Rekayyat, faced a potential explosion after being struck by a missile near the Strait of Hormuz, prompting distress signals from the crew. The vessel suffered damage to its engine room, leading to a fire and smoke, although the crew was evacuated safely. This incident marks the first attack on a Qatari LNG ship since the onset of the conflict in late February.
Additionally, a Saudi-flagged tanker, believed to be the Wedyan, was also reported damaged off Oman’s coast, though the cause remains unclear. Initial assessments suggest that Iran was responsible for firing at these commercial vessels. Qatar’s foreign ministry has stated that Tehran bears full legal responsibility for the attack.
Shipping traffic through the Strait has increased recently, with an average of 25-40 ships daily, but this is still below the pre-conflict average of 125. The incidents have raised concerns, causing crude oil tanker rates to surge, with daily loading rates approaching $300,000. Despite an interim agreement aimed at ensuring safe passage, risks to shipping in the region persist, complicating navigation decisions for vessels.
