The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Saturday that a container ship east of Oman sustained damage leading to a fire onboard. The crew abandoned the vessel and embarked on a lifeboat, according to UKMTO warnings 083-26 and 083-26 UPDATE 001 posted on social media.
Crew Evacuation and UKMTO Advisory
UKMTO issued warnings urging mariners to exercise caution in the area. The exact identity of the container ship and the cause of the fire have not been disclosed. The crew's safety status remains unconfirmed, though the use of lifeboats indicates a controlled evacuation.
US Strikes on Iran Following Strait of Hormuz Attack
Earlier on July 11, the United States launched a third round of strikes against Iran, accusing Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of attacking the Cyprus-flagged container vessel M/V GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that a civilian crew member is missing, and the vessel is unable to continue its journey due to an onboard fire and significant engine room damage.
"At 7:15 p.m. ET today, US Central Command forces began launching the third round of strikes this week against Iran after Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces blatantly attacked M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz," CENTCOM posted on X. The command added that Iran had been provided an opportunity to demonstrate adherence to a Memorandum of Understanding after earlier attacks but "again failed."
US War Secretary's Statement
"In response, the United States is imposing a heavy cost by continuing to degrade Iran's ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships freely transiting the strait. The strikes are being carried out at the direction of the Commander in Chief," CENTCOM said. US War Secretary Pete Hegseth responded on X: "Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay."
IRGC Closes Strait of Hormuz
The strikes came hours after the IRGC announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice," declaring the strategic waterway would remain shut until the United States ends its "interference" in the West Asia region, according to Press TV. An IRGC statement cited "the security situation resulting from the unlawful intervention of foreign powers" and stated no vessel would be permitted to transit.
Impact on Maritime Security
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about 20% of the world's petroleum passing through. The closure threatens to disrupt energy markets and maritime trade. The UKMTO continues to monitor the situation, and further updates are expected.
