Vessel struck by unknown projectile off UAE coast, UKMTO says
USO•A vessel was struck by an unknown projectile 13 nautical miles west of Al Jazeera in the UAE on Friday, causing a fire that was extinguished. The crew’s status, damage extent and environmental impact remain unknown.
1. Vessel struck off UAE
UKMTO said the vessel was struck on Friday and that authorities were investigating. Two shipping and security sources identified it as the Panama-flagged crude supertanker GEM NO.2; Vanguard said it issued a distress alert reporting an onboard fire, which was extinguished.
2. Crew and damage unknown
The crew’s status, extent of damage and environmental impact were unknown. LSEG ship-tracking data showed the fully laden tanker anchored off the UAE coast on Friday.
3. Risk to shipping
Maritime security sources said the strike occurred outside the Hormuz area and indicated a widening of risk for ships. The Joint Maritime Information Center said attacks had become more frequent and called for added crew vigilance and industry monitoring.
