Stretto di Hormus: fuoco sulla cisterna dopo l'attacco

In the strategic waterway known as the Strait of Hormuz, a commercial tanker was struck by an unknown projectile, leading to a fire onboard. The incident occurred approximately eight nautical miles off the Omani coastal town of Limah, according to reports from the UK Maritime Trade Organisation (UKMTO). The organization cited information provided by the ship's crew, who confirmed that no one had been injured during the attack. The vessel, which was en route through the strait, remains under observation as authorities investigate the cause and origin of the incident.

The identity of the perpetrator behind the attack has yet to be determined. However, state media in Iran suggested that the tanker had ignored warnings prior to the strike. According to Iranian state television, the vessel was carrying liquefied gas and had loaded its cargo in Qatar. While the Islamic Republic did not directly claim responsibility for the attack, it reiterated its longstanding stance that only a specific route approved by Tehran should be used by oil tankers and merchant vessels passing through the region. This assertion comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Western nations over maritime security and trade routes.

Iran’s leadership has repeatedly emphasized its exclusive control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. In a recent statement released via state-controlled media, the Iranian military reaffirmed its claim, stating that all commercial ships must adhere strictly to the designated route. Any deviation, they warned, would result in immediate and decisive action by Iranian forces. This declaration aligns with previous statements from Iranian officials, who have accused foreign powers of undermining their sovereignty in the area.

According to U.S.-based news outlet Axios, citing two American officials, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched at least two rockets at commercial vessels in the strait. One official stated that both targeted ships were significantly damaged by the attacks. Despite these claims, the U.S. government has not yet issued an official response. The situation echoes similar incidents in the past, where such attacks prompted retaliatory actions. For instance, just over a week earlier, the United States conducted military strikes against Iranian targets following a similar incident involving a commercial vessel.

The Strait of Hormuz plays a pivotal role in international trade, particularly in the transportation of crude oil, natural gas, and fertilizers. Its reopening was a key component of the recently concluded framework agreement between Washington and Tehran, signed in mid-June. Under this agreement, the U.S. pledged to allow free passage for all vessels without tolls, while Iran maintained its demands for controlled access. The current dispute over navigation rights has intensified since the start of Israeli-American airstrikes on Iranian targets in February, which led to the temporary closure of the strait by Iranian forces.

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict, emphasizing his desire to reach a peaceful resolution rather than involve the Iranian population. He warned that he would prefer to negotiate with the Iranian people rather than see them suffer due to the ongoing hostilities. These remarks come as discussions between the U.S. and Iran remain suspended due to mourning periods following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a missile strike on his office in Tehran on February 28. His passing has further complicated diplomatic efforts aimed at deescalating the regional crisis.