Rania R.a. Abushamala
13 October 2026•Update: 13 October 2026
A container ship and a tanker were struck by unknown projectiles in two separate incidents in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said.
In separate warnings dated Oct. 13, the agency said verified sources had reported that each vessel was struck by an unknown projectile.
“Authorities are investigating,” the UKMTO said in both notices.
The agency did not identify the vessels or provide details on casualties, damage, or who was responsible. The times of both incidents remained unconfirmed.
“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO,” it added.
Since April, Iran has imposed restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, including designated transit routes and a requirement for prior coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
On May 30, Tehran announced that vessels passing through the strait would be required to obtain prior authorization from the IRGC Navy, warning that transit without permission would constitute a “security threat.”
The developments come amid continued tensions between Iran and the US over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important strategic routes for energy and commodity supplies and a key issue in negotiations between the two sides.
The war began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, before a ceasefire was reached in April. Clashes between Washington and Tehran later resumed as negotiations stalled despite the two sides signing a framework agreement in June.