Following the US-Israel attacks, Iran attacked the Palau-flagged oil tanker ‘Skylight’ near the Strait of Hormuz. 20 crew members, including 15 Indians, were evacuated safely. Four people have been injured. Tension has increased in the area.
Iran Attack Near Strait of Hormuz: Iran has attacked an oil tanker passing through the Strait of Hormuz located off the coast of Oman. This action is allegedly being taken by America-Israel in response to the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tension has increased further in the Middle East after the attack.
Musandam Peninsula Incident: Palau flagged tanker targeted
The Palau-flagged oil tanker ‘Skylight’ was targeted near Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. After this, news of drone attacks on Duqm Port in Oman also came to light. According to Oman’s Maritime Security Center (MSC), at least 4 people have been injured in this attack.
Crew Details: 20 members evacuated safely, 15 Indians also
MSC said that this tanker named ‘SKYLIGHT’ was targeted 5 nautical miles north of Khasab Port. There were a total of 20 crew members on board, which included 15 Indian and 5 Iranian nationals. After the attack, all the crew members were evacuated safely. According to initial information, 4 people suffered different injuries, who have been sent for treatment. However, MSC did not clarify what kind of attack took place on the tanker.
Radio Warning and Rising Tensions: Warning given to ships
An alleged radio broadcast before the attack warned that no ships were allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. After this many oil and gas tankers tried to avoid this route. This situation has raised concerns among shipping companies, insurance companies, governments and global oil markets.
Iran’s Warning: Threat to close the strait
Iran also warned last month that if the US or any other country attacks it, it could close the Strait of Hormuz. Now, after the death of the Supreme Leader in US and Israeli attacks, Iran has vowed to take strong retaliation. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have issued a statement saying that the most dangerous attacking operation in the history of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran can begin at any time. After this statement, there is a possibility of increase in tension and instability in the Gulf region.
What is the Strait of Hormuz?
The Strait of Hormuz is considered the most sensitive sea route in the world. About one-fifth of the oil consumed in the world passes through this route. This narrow sea corridor connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea and further to the Indian Ocean. Iran is situated in its north, while Oman and UAE are in the south. Iran shares control over this strait with Oman’s Musandam Peninsula.