Tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates have increased after the UAE said an Iranian missile targeted a vessel linked to Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in the Strait of Hormuz.
The UAE said the vessel was attacked while travelling through the important waterway. No injuries were reported in the latest incident. The UAE condemned the attack and called for such attacks to stop.
Attack on commercial shipping
- The incident is significant because the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes. A large amount of global oil and gas passes through the narrow waterway.
- The UAE accused Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of attacking commercial shipping and described the incident as an attack on freedom of navigation.
- The exact name of the vessel, its cargo and the extent of any damage have not been publicly disclosed.
ADNOC reports repeated attacks
- ADNOC said its vessels have faced repeated missile and drone attacks since the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States began in February.
- According to ADNOC, 15 of its vessels have been attacked since the beginning of the conflict. The company said the attacks have resulted in one crew member being killed and 20 others being injured.
Strait of Hormuz remains under pressure
- The latest incident comes as shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz remains under serious pressure.
- The waterway is important for international energy supplies and continued attacks could increase shipping costs, insurance expenses and concerns about oil and gas supplies.
- Iran and Oman are also discussing arrangements for managing traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, but a final agreement has not yet been announced.
Regional tensions remain high
- The latest attack adds to already high tensions between Iran and the UAE.
- The UAE has strongly condemned Iranian attacks during the wider regional conflict, while Iran has said its military actions are linked to the wider confrontation with the United States and Israel.
- The latest incident could increase pressure on Gulf countries to strengthen the security of commercial shipping and protect energy supplies.
