Iran Strikes Fully Laden Kuwait Oil Tanker in Dubai Port
A Kuwaiti oil tanker carrying a full load of crude was struck by Iran while anchored at Dubai's port, resulting in hull damage and a fire on board, according to a statement from state-run Kuwait Petroleum Corp.
The attack on the very large crude carrier Al-Salmi occurred shortly after midnight local time, marking the latest Iranian aggression against shipping in the Persian Gulf. Firefighting teams are currently working to extinguish the blaze, as confirmed by the Dubai Media Office in a social media post. All 24 crew members have been confirmed safe.
KPC stated that emergency response and firefighting teams were promptly dispatched and are collaborating with relevant authorities to manage the situation. The corporation also warned that the incident may have caused an oil spill in nearby waters.
This event represents a further escalation of Middle East tensions. The U.S. administration has previously threatened Iranian infrastructure targets and deployed additional military assets to the region as the conflict enters its fifth week.
The ongoing hostilities have disrupted global markets and raised concerns about simultaneous inflationary pressures and economic slowdown. The vital Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to most vessel traffic, severely hampering energy shipments.
UK Maritime Trade Operations had earlier reported the attack on the Kuwaiti tanker, which occurred approximately 31 nautical miles northwest of Dubai.
