Near-Total Suspension of Navigation in Hormuz Strait Following UAE Tanker Attacks

Maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz came to a near-total halt on Tuesday morning, following an announcement by the UAE Ministry of Defense regarding the targeting of two national tankers. The vessels, "Mumbai" and "Al-Bahia," were reportedly attacked by two Iranian cruise missiles in the southern corridor of the Strait, within Omani territorial waters. The assault resulted in the death of one Indian crew member from the "Mumbai" and injuries to eight others, four of whom are in serious condition. The Ministry stated that the injured include six Indians and two Ukrainians. Fires erupted on both tankers, causing material damage, before being brought under control. The UAE affirmed its full right to respond and take all necessary measures to protect its security, sovereignty, and national interests. This development comes after the U.S. military announced on Tuesday that it had completed a new wave of strikes against Iran for the third consecutive night, justifying these actions as aiming to weaken Tehran's capability to target ships in the Strait of Hormuz.