Two UAE-flagged tankers have been struck by Iranian cruise missiles in the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz, within Omani territorial waters, the UAE Ministry of Defence announced.
The attack targeted the Mombasa and the Al Bahia. One Indian crew member aboard the Mombasa was killed. Eight others were injured, four of them seriously. Of the injured, six are Indian nationals and two are Ukrainian.
Both vessels caught fire as a result of the strikes. The ministry confirmed the fires on both tankers have since been brought under control, though it reported material damage to both ships.
The ministry condemned what it called a flagrant attack and a serious violation of international law, adding that it threatened regional security and stability. In its statement, it said the UAE reserves its full right to respond to the escalation and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, people, and residents, and to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests.
The ministry said it is at full readiness to deal with any threats and is taking all necessary steps to confront any attempts to destabilise the country’s security. It urged the public to rely on official sources and to avoid circulating unverified information or rumours.
