Tanker Attacked Off Saudi Coast, Fire Erupts on Main Deck

RIYADH, Aug 24: A tanker was struck by an unknown projectile about 63 nautical miles (117 kilometres) west of Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu on Monday, causing a fire on the vessel’s main deck, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said.

UKMTO said all crew members were safe and accounted for following the incident. No environmental damage was reported.

The agency did not identify the vessel or provide details on the type of projectile involved or who may have been responsible for the attack.

The incident occurred in the Red Sea off Saudi Arabia’s western coast, an area where commercial shipping has faced heightened security risks in recent months.

Maritime authorities have repeatedly warned vessels operating in the region to exercise caution amid attacks and threats against commercial shipping.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of tanker traffic in the Red Sea and surrounding waters, where vessels have faced attacks involving missiles, drones and other projectiles.

UKMTO, which provides security information and alerts to commercial shipping in the region, is expected to issue further details as more information becomes available.