3 Attacks On Oil Tanker In Hormuz, Global Energy Markets On Alert; Oil And LPG Prices May Soar

Tehran: Big news has come out from the Gulf region. An oil tanker passing through the Strait of Hormuz has been attacked by three unidentified projectiles. Britain's maritime agency UKMTO itself has confirmed the incident. The tanker was attacked when it was leaving Hormuz. This incident took place about 17 nautical miles i.e. 31 kilometres, east of Khasab city of Oman.

How was the attack on the oil tanker?

According to UKMTO, the captain of the tanker reported that three unknown projectiles hit the ship. The attack occurred when the tanker was transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The agency has immediately started investigation on this and has issued an alert to other ships passing nearby to proceed with caution. It is not yet clear whether these projectiles were missiles, drones or something else and who fired them. The name of the tanker and the flag of which country was on it have also not been told yet.

Was anyone injured or was there oil leakage?

It is a matter of relief that there is no news of anyone being killed or injured in this attack. There is also no information about oil spilling in the sea, which is the biggest danger. But there is no update yet on how much damage has been done to the tanker and whether it will be able to continue its journey further or not.

Why is the attack important amid US-Iran tension?

This attack has happened at a time when tension between America and Iran is at its peak. Just a few days ago, America had destroyed two rocket launchers on Iran's Larak Island near Hormuz. America alleged that Iran was preparing to lay mines in the sea with these launchers. In response, Iran had fired missiles at the American military base in Jordan. Since then the entire area has been on high alert. In such a situation, an attack on any commercial ship is a matter of concern for the whole world.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important?

The Strait of Hormuz is the world's most important oil route. About 20 percent of the world's oil passes through this route. If even a small incident occurs here, the price of crude oil increases immediately in the international market. Due to tension in the last few weeks, the number of ships passing through this route has already reduced. Companies are avoiding sending their tankers through this route. At present UKMTO is keeping an eye on the entire incident. Investigation is underway to find out who is behind the attack.