Two tankers reportedly involved in a ship-to-ship (STS) transfer operation were attacked in Iraqi waters, approximately 5 nautical miles south of Al Basrah. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the incident, noting that a fire broke out on one of the vessels, although the crew was safely evacuated.
The vessels identified were the Greek-owned chemical tanker Zefyros and the US-owned Safesea Vishnu, both of which were engaged in the STS transfer at the time of the attack. According to Pole Star Global’s PurpleTrac, the Zefyros is Malta-flagged, while the Safesea Vishnu is registered in the Marshall Islands. AIS tracking showed the two vessels positioned next to each other during the incident.
The Iraqi News Agency reported that 38 crew members were rescued, but there was one fatality. Farhan Al-Fartousi, Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq, announced a complete suspension of operations at all oil terminals following the attack.
This incident marks the fifth attack on vessels in the Arabian Gulf within a 24-hour period, highlighting escalating tensions in the region. Other affected ships include the Mayuree Naree, which caught fire while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, and the ONE Majesty, which suffered damage off the UAE.
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