Iranian Cruise Missiles Target Two UAE Tankers in Strait of Hormuz

14/07/2026

ABU DHABI, Jul 14: The UAE Ministry of Defence said two Emirati tankers were struck by two Iranian cruise missiles while transiting the southern Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant escalation in maritime tensions in the Gulf.

The ministry said the vessels were targeted in the southern shipping lane but did not immediately provide details on the extent of the damage, casualties, or the condition of the tankers.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed concerns over the security of commercial shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest energy transit routes.

Earlier, a tanker was struck by an unknown projectile approximately 40 nautical miles northeast of Qalhat, Oman, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The vessel's master reported that the projectile hit the starboard side of the engine room. All crew members were reported safe and accounted for, with no environmental impact or pollution resulting from the incident.

UKMTO said the circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation and urged vessels transiting the area to exercise extreme caution and promptly report any suspicious activity.

The incident comes amid heightened security concerns in regional waters as tensions continue to affect commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.