Two oil tankers were hit by explosions near Iraq’s southern coast in the Persian Gulf, leaving one crew member dead and dozens rescued, in an incident that has further intensified tensions in the ongoing regional conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
According to Iraqi port authorities, the attacks occurred in Iraqi territorial waters near the Al-Faw and Basra export terminals, where the tankers were operating while carrying large volumes of crude oil and condensate. The blasts triggered massive fires onboard the vessels, sending thick smoke into the sky and forcing an emergency maritime rescue operation.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Officials from Iraq’s General Company for Ports confirmed that one crew member was killed, while 38 crew members were rescued by Iraqi rescue teams and nearby vessels. Search operations are still ongoing for any missing sailors following the explosions.
The damaged ships were identified as the Marshall Islands-flagged SAFESEA VISHNU and the Maltese-flagged ZEFYROS, both foreign tankers carrying Iraqi petroleum products. Flames reportedly spread across the decks and surrounding waters as oil leaked into the sea.
Iran Claims Responsibility
Iranian state media reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that unmanned underwater vessels or explosive-laden boats were used to strike the tankers. The action was described as part of Iran’s broader campaign to disrupt oil shipments in the Persian Gulf amid the escalating war in the region.
Iraqi officials said preliminary investigations also suggest that Iranian explosive boats may have been involved in the sabotage, though full confirmation is still pending.
Impact on Oil Exports and Global Markets
Following the incident, Iraqi authorities temporarily halted operations at several oil export terminals, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global energy supplies. The Persian Gulf region handles a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments, and any attacks on tankers can quickly affect international markets.
Analysts warn that repeated attacks on energy infrastructure and shipping routes could drive global oil prices higher and threaten maritime security in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Rising Maritime Tensions
The tanker explosions are part of a series of escalating maritime incidents in the Gulf as the conflict between Iran and its adversaries expands beyond land and air operations.
Security experts say attacks on oil tankers could be intended to disrupt energy exports and pressure global markets, making commercial shipping in the region increasingly risky.
Authorities in Iraq and international maritime agencies are now monitoring the situation closely as rescue and investigation efforts continue.
