Two seafarers have died following an attack on the Saudi-owned VLCC MV Sidr in the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi authorities identified both victims as Filipino nationals.
The incident occurred on August 31 while MV Sidr was transiting the strategic waterway. UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received a delayed report and initially recorded two casualties. An update on Wednesday confirmed that both seafarers had died.
MV Sidr, operated by Saudi shipping company Bahri, was carrying Saudi crude when it was struck. Saudi Arabia said the vessel was targeted by Iran.
Bahri said it remained in contact with the tanker and was coordinating with authorities and maritime industry representatives. No environmental impact has been reported.
The deaths add to the growing toll among merchant seafarers in attacks around the Strait of Hormuz. At least 18 seafarers have now been confirmed dead, while dozens more have been injured in attacks on commercial vessels.
The rising number of casualties has prompted renewed warnings from shipping organisations. BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, INTERCARGO and INTERTANKO have called for attacks on merchant ships to stop, stressing that civilian seafarers must not become victims of military or political confrontation.
