Gulf of Oman: Explosion strikes British vessel in Gulf of Oman Feb. 25

Event

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported Feb. 26 that an explosion struck a British vessel in the Gulf of Oman Feb. 25. The UKMTO has not provided additional details about the incident. However, no injuries have been reported and the vessel does not appear to have incurred significant damage. Reports indicate that the vessel involved was the MV Helios Ray, which was on its way from the city of Dammam in Saudi Arabia to Singapore.

Persian Gulf littoral states and their allies could increase naval and aerial surveillance in the days ahead. The incident will likely prompt heightened security measures and could possibly disrupt shipping and maritime transport through the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman.

Context

A series of high-profile incidents involving vessels and oil tankers have occurred in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman in recent years. Iran's constant threats of closing the Strait of Hormuz and maritime incidents prompted the US to form the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) to monitor the safe passage of oil in the Persian Gulf in 2019. As tensions between Washington and Tehran persist, further similar incidents remain likely.

Advice

Exercise caution and reconfirm routes with maritime authorities if transiting or shipping freight through the Persian Gulf in the coming days.