Saudi Arabia condemned an Iranian attack on a national oil tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz that resulted in the deaths of two crew members from the Philippines, according to the Saudi Foreign Ministry.
Regional Condemnation and Maritime Security Stakes
Neighbouring Gulf states joined Riyadh in denouncing the strike, citing severe breaches of international maritime law. According to the foreign ministries of Kuwait and Qatar, the attack undermined the freedom of navigation in a critical global energy transit corridor. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry explicitly rejected the use of the strategic waterway as a bargaining chip, while the Saudi Foreign Ministry stressed the absolute necessity of halting escalations and protecting global energy supplies.
Did you know? Before the onset of the US-Israeli war with Iran, approximately 20 percent of the world’s petroleum passed through the narrow shipping lanes of the Strait of Hormuz.
Bahri Fleet Impact and Prior Attacks
Bahri confirmed via social media that the Sidr vessel was involved in a security incident late Monday, adding that company officials remain in continuous contact with the ship and are coordinating closely with maritime industry stakeholders and relevant authorities. This incident follows a series of recent attacks on Bahri vessels in regional waters. In July, the Wedyan supertanker sustained damage near the coast of Oman, while the Masa and Amzan tankers faced strikes in the Red Sea following a naval blockade declaration by Yemen’s Houthis.
Conflicting Damage Reports and Transit Restrictions
Data from Kpler indicates that the targeted tankers had recently loaded two million barrels of crude oil at Juaymah on Saudi Arabia’s east coast. Greek maritime risk management firm Marisks reported that unidentified projectiles struck two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz overnight between Monday and Tuesday. Conversely, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed on Wednesday that two oil tankers caught fire after striking mines in the strait.
Meanwhile, the United States maintains that commercial vessels can still safely transit the waterway, though traffic has slowed considerably. Washington has vowed to maintain its indefinite counter-blockade of Iranian ports, even as Iran continues targeting unauthorized vessels attempting to navigate the strategic passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country owned the attacked oil tanker?
The Sidr oil tanker is owned by Bahri, the national shipping company of Saudi Arabia, according to the Saudi Foreign Ministry.
What are the nationalities of the crew members killed in the attack?
Two crew members killed during the incident were citizens of the Philippines.
How did regional governments respond to the Strait of Hormuz incident?
Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar issued strong condemnations, stating that the attack violated international law and freedom of maritime navigation.
What caused the tankers to catch fire, according to official statements?
According to the Saudi Foreign Ministry and regional reporting, the Sidr tanker was targeted by an Iranian attack. Separately, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed two tankers caught fire after striking mines.
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