Three commercial vessels struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz

On March 11, three commercial vessels were hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. The Thai-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree was struck 11 nautical miles off Oman, resulting in a fire that was later extinguished with essential crew remaining on board. The Japanese-flagged container ship One Majesty sustained minor damage 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, and is proceeding to a safe anchorage. The Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Star Gwyneth was struck 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai, causing hull damage but leaving the crew safe. These incidents occurred amidst heightened regional tensions since the start of the Iran conflict on February 28. Authorities reported that these attacks bring the total number of ships targeted since late February to at least 14. Shipping traffic through this critical maritime corridor, which carries roughly 20% of global oil and gas, has seen a sharp decline as security concerns intensify.