Six Vessels Attacked in Gulf and Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions Over Iranian Drone Boats and Sea Mines

A series of maritime attacks in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz has raised serious international alarm, as at least six commercial vessels were struck amid reports of Iranian drone boats and sea mines being used in the volatile waters, according to multiple news agencies.

The incidents unfolded as the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and its allies intensified, with Gulf shipping routes becoming a frontline in the regional confrontation.

Two fuel tankers, the Safesea Vishnu, flagged to the Marshall Islands, and the Zefyros, reported to be Maltese‑registered, were hit in Iraqi waters late Wednesday, resulting in fires on board and at least one crew member confirmed killed, while others were rescued by Iraqi authorities.

Additional vessels, including container ships and other merchant craft in Gulf waters and near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, were also damaged by projectiles, suspected explosive‑laden boats, and possibly drifting sea mines, prompting evacuations and emergency responses by maritime agencies.

The wave of attacks contributes to growing disruptions along a waterway that handles roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil trade, further compounding risks to global energy supplies amid the broader Middle East conflict.

These developments occur as U.S. and allied forces continue operations targeting Iranian naval mine‑laying capabilities and drone assets, and as shipping companies reassess transit through the region’s most critical shipping lanes in light of escalating threats.