Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Doha: Qatar has confirmed that a fuel tanker leased by its state-owned energy company was struck by an Iranian missile in its territorial waters early Wednesday morning, escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
According to Qatar’s Ministry of Defence, three cruise missiles were launched from Iran targeting the Gulf state. The country’s air defence systems successfully intercepted two missiles, while the third struck an oil tanker operating under QatarEnergy.
The tanker, identified as Aqua 1, was hit in the northern territorial waters of Qatar. Authorities immediately coordinated rescue and safety operations, ensuring the safe evacuation of all 21 crew members onboard. Officials confirmed that there were no casualties in the incident.
QatarEnergy also issued a statement confirming the attack, adding that the strike caused no environmental damage despite the impact on the vessel.
Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had reported that a tanker was hit approximately 17 nautical miles north of Doha. The report stated that the vessel suffered damage to its hull above the waterline after being struck by an unidentified projectile.
This incident comes amid a sharp rise in regional tensions, with Gulf countries facing repeated missile and drone attacks from Iran in recent weeks. These developments follow ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel, which began intensifying in late February.
Iran has increasingly targeted key oil infrastructure and shipping routes in the region. The situation has significantly impacted maritime traffic, particularly around the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply typically passes.
Authorities in Qatar continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing maritime safety and regional stability.
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