The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for targeting a Panama-flagged container ship, identified as the US-owned MSC Sariska V, with a cruise missile, according to Iranian media reports. The operation was executed in direct retaliation for a previous offensive against an Iranian vessel near the coast of Oman.
Incident Details
A cargo vessel transiting the Arabian Gulf was struck by an unidentified projectile on Monday, causing a large explosion off the coast of Iraq. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the vessel was hit on its starboard side while traveling approximately 40 nautical miles (74 km) southeast of Umm Qasr. The impact was followed by a significant explosion.
Vessel Identification
The vessel was later identified as the Panama-flagged MSC SARISKA V, according to Gulf News citing Iraq's Alsumaria News. The ship sustained an explosion within Iraqi territorial waters near buoy number five after completing cargo unloading at Umm Qasr Port.
Casualties and Damage
The UKMTO confirmed that the crew survived without injuries, and the ship continued its journey to the next port. No environmental damage was reported. Authorities are investigating the incident.
Conflicting Accounts
In contrast to the IRGC's claim of a missile strike, preliminary assessments suggest the blast may have been caused by an internal mechanical malfunction. A security source cited by Alsumaria News indicated no evidence of a deliberate attack. The structural damage was confined to the vessel itself.
The UKMTO has not yet confirmed the specific identity of the vessel involved. The incident raises tensions in the region, highlighting ongoing maritime security concerns.
