Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is facing renewed security concerns after three merchant tankers were attacked within 24 hours, prompting a large-scale US military response and reversing the gradual return to normal operations seen in recent weeks. Maritime security organisations have raised the threat level for vessels transiting the strategic waterway as owners and charterers reassess voyage risks.
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the targeted vessels were the Marshall Islands-flagged LNG carrier Al Rekayyat, the Saudi Arabia-flagged crude oil tanker Wedyan, and the Liberian-flagged tanker Cyprus Prosperity.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that one vessel suffered an engine-room fire after being struck by a projectile, while the other two sustained structural damage. No injuries or pollution were reported, and all three ships remained seaworthy, proceeding to ports or safe anchorages under their own power.
Washington blamed Iran for the attacks, describing them as a threat to freedom of navigation through one of the world’s most important energy corridors. In response, US Central Command said it struck more than 80 military targets, including coastal radar installations, air-defence systems, anti-ship missile sites and dozens of fast attack craft operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The escalation comes as commercial traffic had only recently begun recovering following a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Fresh military activity has again increased uncertainty for tanker and LNG operators using the route. Any prolonged disruption could affect vessel scheduling, insurance costs and regional energy supply chains.
