Following US-Israeli strikes, Iran attacks Palau-flagged oil tanker Skylight near the Strait of Hormuz. Twenty crew members, including 15 Indians, were rescued. Four were injured. Tensions have risen in the region.

Iran Attack Near Strait of Hormuz: Iran has attacked an oil tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Oman. This action is reportedly in retaliation for the US-Israeli assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attack has further escalated tensions in the Middle East.

Musandam Peninsula Incident: Palau-flagged tanker targeted

The Palau-flagged oil tanker "Skylight" was targeted near Oman's Musandam Peninsula. Drone attacks were also reported at Oman's Duqm Port. According to Oman's Maritime Security Center (MSC), at least four people were injured in the attack.

Crew Details: 20 members were rescued safely, including 15 Indians.

MSC stated that the tanker, named "SKYLIGHT," was targeted five nautical miles north of Khasab Port. A total of 20 crew members were aboard, including 15 Indian and five Iranian nationals. All crew members were safely evacuated following the attack. Initial information suggests four people suffered varying degrees of injuries and have been sent for treatment. However, MSC did not specify what type of attack occurred on the tanker.

Radio Warning and Rising Tensions: Warnings issued to ships

The attack was preceded by an alleged radio broadcast warning that no ships were permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Following this, several oil and gas tankers attempted to avoid the route, raising concerns among shipping companies, insurance companies, governments, and global oil markets.

Iran's Warning: Threat to close the Strait

Last month, Iran also warned that it could close the Strait of Hormuz if the US or any other country attacked it. Now, following the death of its Supreme Leader in US and Israeli attacks, Iran has vowed to retaliate strongly. Iran's Revolutionary Guards issued a statement saying that the most dangerous attacking operation in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Armed Forces could begin at any time. Following this statement, tensions and instability are feared to increase in the Gulf region.

What is the Strait of Hormuz?

The Strait of Hormuz is considered the world's most sensitive sea route. Nearly a fifth of the world's oil consumption passes through it. This narrow sea passage connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and further into the Indian Ocean. Iran lies to its north, while Oman and the UAE lie to its south. Iran shares control of the strait with Oman's Musandam Peninsula.

 PC:Asinetnews