Saudi Arabia says Iran attacked vessel in Hormuz, killing 2 Filipino sailors

Saudi Arabia confirmed on Wednesday, September 2, that an Iranian attack on a Saudi-owned oil tanker had killed two Filipino seafarers, marking yet another escalation in tensions over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred late on Monday, August 31, when the supertanker Sidr, operated by Saudi state-owned shipping company Bahri, was struck near the waters off Oman. According to official statements, the attack took place at 23:40 local time (2040 GMT) while the vessel was transiting the critical chokepoint, which sees a significant portion of global oil traffic. The Saudi Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to halt further escalations and uphold international maritime safety. It called for respect for the security of global energy supplies, underscoring the importance of the region to worldwide energy markets. Bahri stated that it was maintaining constant communication with the vessel and cooperating with authorities and maritime stakeholders to manage the situation. The attack follows a pattern of incidents targeting Saudi vessels in the region. In July, another Bahri tanker, Wedyan, was hit while navigating near Oman's coast. Earlier this year, two more Bahri ships, Masa and Amzan, were attacked in the Red Sea following the declaration of a naval blockade by Iran-backed Yemeni rebels, the Houthis. These attacks have raised concerns among regional powers and highlighted the growing risks associated with operating in the area. The Philippines' Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that it is coordinating with the vessel's owner, the licensed manning agency, and relevant authorities to expedite the repatriation of the deceased seafarers. The DMW also assured the families of the victims that they will receive all necessary support, including medical care, welfare services, and financial compensation according to both domestic and international maritime laws. The identities of the two Filipino seafarers remain undisclosed pending further investigation. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reiterated that Filipino seafarers have the legal right to refuse assignments in high-risk areas such as the Strait of Hormuz. He urged shipowners and licensing agencies to prioritize the safety of their workers and avoid placing them in dangerous situations. This stance reflects ongoing efforts by the Philippine government to protect its overseas labor force amid rising geopolitical instability. The attack comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Gulf states, particularly following the U.S.-led strikes on Iran in February 2026, which disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Prior to these strikes, approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade passed through the strait. Since then, the region has become increasingly volatile, with reports of increased missile activity and unauthorized military actions affecting commercial shipping. The incident has drawn attention from international maritime organizations and regional governments, who are monitoring the situation closely. While no formal accusations have been made by Tehran, the country has previously warned of potential retaliation against vessels attempting to transit the strait without prior authorization. Such threats have contributed to a climate of uncertainty for commercial operators, many of whom have opted to reroute their cargo through alternative routes to avoid the area. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the coordination between Saudi authorities, Bahri, and the Philippine government to ensure the proper handling of the victims and the continued protection of Filipino seafarers. The broader implications of the attack underscore the complex interplay between geopolitics and global commerce, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a focal point of international concern.