UPDATE03: Ambrey subsequently observed imagery of the aftermath, which showed a thick black cloud of smoke and flames emanating from the vessel’s accommodation block, as well as a hole, likely in the engine room, with flames emanating from it just above the waterline.
UPDATE02: Authorities subsequently confirmed that the tanker had been struck by a projectile. The fire on board had been brought under control; however, the crew had abandoned the vessel and had been rescued by a tug. At the time of writing, the vessel was adrift.
UPDATE01: A Malta-flagged oil products tanker issued a distress signal 7.45NM northwest of Kumzar, Oman. The vessel issued a distress alert via VHF Channel 16. AIS data indicated that the vessel was transiting westbound through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz with its AIS switched off. The vessel subsequently turned on its AIS at 21:57 UTC, and was observed having come to a drift at approximately 22:20 UTC. Ambrey is aware that UKMTO subsequently reported a vessel having suffered a fire in the area of interest. Ambrey is aware that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have struck two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait. At the time of writing, the cause of the blaze was unconfirmed. The tanker remained adrift. No casualties or pollution had been reported. Ambrey has upgraded the incident to ‘War Risk – Physical Damage’.
Ambrey is aware of an incident 8NM northwest of Kumzar, Oman. Ambrey will provide updates when available.
ADVICE: Merchant vessels are advised to report any suspicious activity in the Arabian/Persian Gulf. Bridge manning should be kept to the minimum required. Crew are advised to remain within the designated Safe Muster Point (SMP) during UAV attacks. The SMP should be located above the waterline, amidships, and low down in the superstructure. Following an attack or suspicious activity, vessels are advised to switch off AIS and power down LRIT.
