A tanker caught fire off the coast of Oman on Monday night after being hit by an “unknown projectile” in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred as the U.S. and Iran engage in sensitive peace negotiations to end a conflict that began on February 28.
What happened to the ships in the Strait of Hormuz?
The UKMTO reported Tuesday that a tanker was struck on its port side while moving southbound, roughly 8 nautical miles (15km) off the coast of Limah in Oman. Three unidentified sources told Reuters the vessel was the Al Rekayyat, a Qatari LNG tanker. While the crew is safe, one source briefed on the incident told Reuters the ship faces a risk of explosion due to an engine room fire.
A second vessel, a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker, was also damaged. According to sources cited by Reuters, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) fired missiles at commercial ships transiting the strait on Monday night. This aligns with a report from Axios, citing two unnamed U.S. officials, stating the IRGC launched at least two missiles, causing significant damage to two ships with no reported casualties.
Why are these attacks happening now?
The strikes coincide with funeral processions for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the unity shown by millions of Iranians during these processions proves the nation is not moved by threats.
Analyst Hossein Royvaran told Al Jazeera that the Qatari tanker may have been targeted because it entered an area where Iranian teams were clearing mines. However, Arman Mahmoudian, a research fellow at the Global and National Security Institute at the University of South Florida, told Al Jazeera that the use of projectiles and missiles suggests targeted attacks rather than accidental mine explosions.
Comparing the “Mine” Theory vs. Projectile Attacks
| Theory | Source/Perspective | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Mine-clearing accident | Hossein Royvaran (Al Jazeera) | Ships strayed into dangerous zones. |
| Targeted Missiles/Drones | Arman Mahmoudian (USF) | Strategic intent to harass individual vessels. |
How will this impact U.S.-Iran peace talks?
The attacks complicate a preliminary memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on June 14, which paused the war for 60 days to allow for a permanent deal. A recent round of indirect talks in Qatar ended last week without a lasting agreement.
According to Arman Mahmoudian, Iran may justify these attacks by claiming President Trump’s recent statements violated the MoU’s spirit regarding sovereignty and threats. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Monday that the U.S. will “either make a deal or we’re going to finish the job,” threatening to knock out Iranian bridges and energy supplies.
Foreign Minister Araghchi responded by stating that negotiations for a final deal will not begin if these threats continue, urging the U.S. to “honor your signature.”
What is the current shipping status of the Strait?
Shipping volume remains volatile. Data from Kpler shared on X showed 108 verified crossings over a recent weekend, with 43 on July 3, 34 on July 4, and 31 on July 5. This is a significant drop from the pre-war average of 120-140 vessels daily.
Since March, Iran has restricted passage, requiring some ships to negotiate transit with the IRGC. Some vessels reportedly paid up to $2 million per ship for access. In response, the U.S. imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports in June.
Professor Mohsen Milani of the University of South Florida told Al Jazeera that Iran is “weaponizing Hormuz geographically” to increase bargaining power. Michael Wahid Hanna of the International Crisis Group added that Iran seeks a system that recognizes its control of the strait and allows for its monetization through service or environmental fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz?
According to Reuters, the Al Rekayyat (a Qatari LNG tanker) and a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker were damaged.
Who is responsible for the projectile attacks?
Axios, citing U.S. officials, reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) fired the missiles. Tehran has not directly claimed the assault, though Iranian television suggested the tanker ignored warnings.
Is the Strait of Hormuz completely closed?
No. While traffic has collapsed from pre-war levels, Kpler reported 108 crossings over a single weekend in early July.
What do you think about the U.S. strategy of “maximum pressure” versus diplomacy in the Strait? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for real-time maritime security updates.
