Three merchant vessels were struck by suspected projectiles near the Strait of Hormuz on March 11, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), highlighting renewed security risks for commercial shipping and potential implications for marine insurers and war-risk coverage in the region.
The incidents come as tensions in the Middle East enter their twelfth day and maritime authorities report a growing number of security events affecting vessels operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Arabian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.
According to UKMTO, the latest incidents bring the total number of reported maritime security events in the region to 17 between Feb. 28 and March 11.
The first reported incident occurred approximately 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras Al Khaimah, where the master of a container vessel reported damage from a suspected but unidentified projectile.
According to a Reuters report, maritime security firms identified the ship as the Japan-flagged container vessel ONE Majesty. While the vessel sustained damage, the crew reported that all personnel were safe and accounted for.
A second incident occurred roughly 11 nautical miles north of Oman within the Strait of Hormuz itself. A cargo vessel was reportedly struck by an unknown projectile, igniting a fire onboard and prompting the crew to begin evacuating.
The vessel requested assistance while the blaze was brought under control. According to Thailand’s Transport Ministry, 20 crew members have been rescued, while three remain missing. Officials said the fire has been extinguished and no environmental damage has been reported so far.
A third attack was reported about 50 nautical miles northwest of Dubai, where the bulk carrier Star Gwyneth was struck while anchored.
The vessel’s owner, Star Bulk Carriers, said the projectile damaged the hull in the hold area. Authorities are investigating the incident, and the crew have been reported safe.
The incidents will likely sharpen the focus on war-risk coverage for vessels operating in high-risk zones.
Insurers and reinsurers typically apply additional war-risk premiums for voyages through the Strait of Hormuz and other conflict-prone waters, with pricing often fluctuating based on the severity and frequency of incidents. The waterway is a critical global trade artery, with a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through the narrow channel between Iran and Oman.
Even limited disruptions to shipping traffic can have wide-reaching implications for energy markets, supply chains and shipping costs.
The incidents have unfolded against the backdrop of intensifying regional tensions. United States President Donald Trump has warned that Iran would face “never-before-seen” military repercussions if the key shipping lane were sabotaged.
Meanwhile, the US military said it had struck 16 Iranian minelayer vessels near the Strait of Hormuz in what officials described as a move to counter potential threats to commercial shipping.
Maritime authorities are advising vessels transiting the area to exercise heightened caution and report suspicious activity to UKMTO.
