Fire on Thai Tanker in Strait of Hormuz; Three Crew Members Missing Amidst Tensions

A major fire erupted on Wednesday morning, March 11, aboard the Thai bulk carrier "Maersk Nari" (30,193 tons) off the coast of Oman, amidst reports suggesting a potential attack, coinciding with a statement from Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) mandating prior authorization for vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Royal Omani Navy responded to the distress signal from the vessel, which reported being struck by two projectiles targeting its stern and engine room, causing explosions and subsequent conflagration. The ship, owned by Thailand's Precious Shipping, was en route from the United Arab Emirates carrying ballast cargo and was situated approximately 11 nautical miles from Omani shores.

The owning company confirmed damage to the engine room. Twenty crew members evacuated the vessel via a lifeboat and were rescued by the Omani Navy, subsequently transported ashore. However, three crew members remain unaccounted for, with the owner believing they may be trapped within the engine room. UK Maritime Trade Operations later confirmed that the fires had been extinguished, while the Royal Thai Navy continues to monitor the rescue operations.

The shipping company affirmed adherence to stringent safety protocols and continuous communication with the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) prior to attempting transit, noting that the vessel was insured against war risks. This incident follows a series of reported attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, including similar targeting of the container ship "ONE Majesty" and the bulk carrier "Star Guinevere" in the same vicinity.

Conversely, the IRGC alleged that the Thai vessel disregarded warnings and attempted to transit the Strait of Hormuz without the requisite permission. Iran maintains that vessels originating from the United States, Israel, or their allies are considered legitimate targets. In related developments, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) cautioned civilian entities against the Iranian regime's utilization of civilian ports to execute military operations, urging commercial crew members and personnel to maintain distance from Iranian military assets and equipment.