A Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, the Al Mayeda, was struck by what were described as “unidentified objects” in the Gulf on Friday evening, according to a statement reported on Sunday. The vessel belongs to the Qatar Gas Transport Company.
No crew members were injured, and no environmental damage was reported. The vessel was described as being in a “safe condition, operational,” while the impact of the incident is being assessed.
The incident is the latest attack on commercial shipping since the US-Israel war on Iran began in February. More than 120 commercial ships have been hit since the war began, according to International Maritime Organization and UK Maritime Trade Operations data.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz early in the war and has warned vessels passing without its permission would face “destruction.” Attacks increased since the United States reimposed a blockade on Iran’s southern ports in July. October was the worst month of the war, with at least 29 ships hit, ahead of 20 in March.
No party has been identified as responsible for striking the Al Mayeda, and no responsibility claim is stated in the report. The objects involved remain described as “unidentified.”
Source: Al Jazeera
Note: The featured image is illustrative only, not a photo of the actual vessel or event.
