Web Desk: An attack on oil tankers in the Persian Gulf has raised fresh security concerns in the region after vessels carrying Iraqi fuel were targeted near the territorial waters of Iraq.
According to early reports at least two foreign oil tankers came under attack while sailing through the strategic waterway. One of the vessels is believed to be an American owned tanker. Both ships were reportedly transporting Iraqi fuel oil at the time of the incident.
Officials said the attack caused large fires on the vessels. Crews struggled to control the flames as the ships burned in the waters of the Persian Gulf.
The head of Iraq’s ports company confirmed that emergency teams launched a rescue operation soon after the attack. Authorities managed to evacuate 38 crew members from the damaged tankers. However one person did not survive the incident.
Preliminary information suggests that drone boats may have been used in the strike. Reports indicate that the vessels were hit near Iraqi territorial waters. Investigations are still ongoing to confirm the exact details of the attack and the method used.
Security sources initially reported that three tankers may have been targeted in the area. Later updates suggested that two vessels were directly struck while another may have been at risk during the incident.
The Persian Gulf remains one of the most important oil shipping routes in the world. Any attack on energy infrastructure or oil tankers in the region can raise serious concerns for global energy markets and maritime security.
Authorities in Iraq are continuing to monitor the situation. Further updates are expected as investigators gather more information about the attack and those responsible.
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