A cargo vessel caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by an unknown projectile, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The maritime agency reported that the incident occurred about 11 nautical miles north of Oman, a critical shipping route used by international cargo and energy vessels.
In an advisory, UKMTO said the strike caused a fire onboard the cargo ship and prompted the crew to begin evacuation procedures. The vessel also issued a request for assistance following the incident.
“A cargo vessel has been hit by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz which has resulted in a fire onboard. The vessel has requested assistance and the crew are evacuating the vessel,” the agency said in its statement.
UKMTO also warned other ships in the area to exercise heightened caution while transiting the busy waterway.
“Vessels are advised to transit with caution,” the advisory added.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, the ship’s captain confirmed that all crew members were safe and accounted for after the evacuation.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant portion of global oil and cargo shipments. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as vessels in the region remain on alert.