Commercial shipping activity near the Strait of Hormuz faced renewed security concerns on 11 March after three merchant vessels were reportedly struck in separate incidents in waters around Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
The most serious case involved the Thai-flagged bulk carrier MAYUREE NAREE, which caught fire after being hit north of Oman. Reports indicated that most crew members were evacuated following the incident, while a limited number remained on board to assist with emergency response operations.
Damage was also reported on the Japanese-flagged container vessel One Majesty near Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE. The ship is owned by MOL and operated by ONE. Initial information indicated that all crew members were safe following the incident.
A third vessel, the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Star Gwyneth, was also reported to have been struck and damaged. Public records link the vessel to Star Bulk, a dry bulk shipping company listed in the United States.
Maritime security reporting from the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and private monitoring services indicated that the vessels were likely hit by projectiles in separate events off the coasts of Oman and the UAE.
The incidents emerged shortly after Iran warned that ships connected to the United States, Israel and their partners could face attacks while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is one of the most important maritime corridors for global trade and energy shipments.
The reported attacks highlight how rising geopolitical tensions in the Gulf can quickly affect commercial shipping operations. In addition to crew safety risks, security incidents in the area can influence insurance costs, voyage planning and traffic patterns through the narrow strait.
Industry observers note that even limited attacks on merchant vessels can trigger heightened maritime security alerts and operational caution among shipowners operating in the region.
