Bulk Carrier Attacked By Multiple Small Craft Near Iran’s Coast In Strait Of Hormuz

A bulk carrier sailing near Iran’s coast in the Strait of Hormuz reported being attacked by multiple small craft, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The incident happened on Sunday when the vessel was moving north, about 11 nautical miles (20 km) west of Sirik, Iran.

UKMTO said the information came directly from the ship’s master, who reported that several small craft approached and carried out the attack.

All crew members on board were safe, and no environmental damage was reported.

Authorities have not shared the name of the vessel or details about the small craft involved. An investigation is now underway.

UKMTO has advised ships in the area to remain alert and report any unusual activity while authorities look into what happened.

Later the same day, Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency said the vessel was not seized. It reported that the Iranian navy had stopped the ship to check documents as part of routine procedures.

The Strait of Hormuz is already under pressure due to ongoing tensions in the region. The waterway is one of the world’s most important routes for oil, gas and bulk cargo shipments.

Since late February, the situation has worsened after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, followed by Iranian responses in the region.

Shipping traffic has been affected, with Iran tightening control over the passage. Movement of oil, gas and fertiliser cargoes has slowed, pushing global prices higher.

On April 13, the United States began a counter-blockade targeting Iranian ports. The move came shortly after a temporary ceasefire was announced earlier in April through mediation efforts.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), 49 commercial vessels trying to enter or leave Iranian ports have been redirected under the blockade so far. US forces said they are continuing to enforce these measures.

In another development, US President Donald Trump said the United States will start guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz from Monday.

The operation is expected to include guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft and around 15,000 personnel. A US official said this will not be a formal escort mission.

Ebrahim Azizi, who heads Iran’s parliamentary National Security Commission, said any US involvement in managing shipping in the area would be seen as a violation of the ceasefire.

He also said that decisions about the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf would not be controlled by the United States.

At the same time, diplomatic talks are still ongoing. US officials said discussions with Iran are positive, while Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed it is reviewing the latest response from Washington.

Meanwhile, the situation at sea remains tense. Many ships have faced delays or have been redirected, and a number of seafarers are still waiting onboard vessels for clearance to move through the region.

References: Reuters, UKMTO