A tanker exploded 10 nautical miles east of Fujairah, in the United Arab Emirates, after being hit by a missile, according to a statement from UKMTO.
The ship suffered minor damage to its funnel, but there were no serious impacts or environmental damage. The crew is safe and all sailors have been found.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident in the Strait of Hormuz, which has become a target of Iran's Revolutionary Guards in retaliation for US-Israeli attacks, while other ships in the area are advised to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity.
Sailors are also required to maintain constant visual and radar surveillance, in accordance with guidelines to protect ships from military threats, such as missiles or drones.
The incident comes at a time of heightened risk to shipping in the Gulf and UAE regions, where maritime security remains critical to the flow of trade and oil.
Experts say that surveillance, compliance with directives and cooperation with local authorities are essential measures to protect ships and crews.
The incident is a reminder of how vulnerable merchant ships are in areas of high geopolitical risk and the need for constant vigilance by shipowners and maritime security companies.
