Two oil tankers collided near the Strait of Hormuz in the Gulf of Oman, prompting the evacuation of 24 crew members. No injuries or oil spills were reported, according to the United Arab Emirates Coast Guard.
While the cause of the incident remains under investigation, ship tracking data suggests that one of the vessels was heading south when it suddenly veered right and struck the other. This area, one of the busiest maritime chokepoints in the world, has seen growing anxiety from shipping firms amid escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel.
The maritime security firm Ambrey stated that the incident was unrelated to the recent hostilities. Still, the collision comes just days after Israel launched a missile attack on Iran, prompting retaliatory strikes that have fueled uncertainty across the region. Historically, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if its sovereignty or security comes under threat—a move that could drastically impact global oil supply.
Around 20 percent of the world’s traded crude oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway bordered by Iran, Oman, and the UAE has always been a strategic pressure point. For shipping companies, any disruption here carries major implications—not only for supply chains but also for charter rates, insurance, and crew safety.
More recently, technical disruptions to ship navigation systems in the area have been reported. Several vessels are experiencing what experts describe as “electronic interference,” making it difficult to rely on onboard systems for safe passage. These electronic anomalies coincide with the regional escalation and have raised red flags among operators and maritime risk analysts.
The Financial Times reported that Frontline, the world’s largest publicly traded oil tanker company, is now declining new contracts involving routes through the strait. This shift underscores the seriousness with which major players are reassessing their operations in the Gulf.
With commercial confidence slipping and regional conflict smoldering, shipowners are bracing for the possibility of further disruptions, even without direct conflict at sea.
Source:NOS
