Two separate security incidents involving commercial shipping have been reported in waters off Yemen and Oman over the past days.
In the first incident, reported at 0735 UTC on 15 June, a container vessel was approached by a small skiff approximately 14 nautical miles south of the Yemeni coast. According to individuals aboard the skiff opened fire on the vessel and attempted to board it. The crew of the merchant ship reported the attack and authorities are currently investigating the circumstances.
all vessels operating in the area to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity.
The waters off Yemen, particularly near the Bab el-Mandeb corridor, remain a high-risk shipping route due to past incidents involving armed attacks, piracy, and militant activity.
Tanker struck by unknown projectile east of Oman
In a separate incident reported by military authorities, a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile while operating approximately 6 nautical miles east of Oman.
The incident, reported on 12 June at 2230 UTC and issued publicly on 13 June, resulted in damage to the vessel’s port bow. However, officials confirmed that the crew was safe and there was no reported environmental pollution.
The vessel continued its voyage to its next port of call following the incident.
Authorities have not yet identified the source or type of projectile involved. Investigations are ongoing.
Both cases are under investigation, with authorities warning vessels to exercise heightened caution in the region.