Tanker Struck by Multiple Projectiles in Gulf Off Qatar, Maritime Agency Says

Tanker Struck North of Qatar

A commercial tanker sustained hits from multiple projectiles north of Qatar in the Gulf, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency. The incident occurred 51 nautical miles from Madinat al-Shamal, with casualties reported at the scene.

Maritime intelligence firm Vanguard identified the vessel as the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged oil and chemical tanker Acers. The ship had previously been reported sailing toward the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional Shipping Incidents

Merchant vessels have faced repeated attacks in the region since the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran began in February. According to the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO), 93 confirmed incidents have resulted in at least 24 seafarer fatalities.

Martin Kelly, head of advisory at EOS Risk Group, noted that this event represents the first reported attack on a ship this far west of the Strait of Hormuz since 9 September. On that date, two sailors died during an attack on the Panama-flagged tanker El Gaia.

Security and Transit Context

Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz previously faced severe disruption due to Iranian missile and drone attacks alongside a United States naval blockade of Iranian ports. Although the US and Iran reached a preliminary agreement in June to reopen the waterway, the arrangement collapsed within weeks as shipping attacks resumed and the blockade was reinstated.

To maintain exports from Gulf Arab states, the United States military continues providing protection for tankers transiting the area. Shipping data company Kpler reported that crude exports through the waterway averaged 12 million barrels per day over the preceding two weeks, representing approximately 80% of pre-war levels.