Iran Israel War, Oil Tanker Attack in Strait of Hormuz: Amid growing tension in the Middle East, Oman has one of the most important sea routes in the world. strait of hormuz An oil tanker was attacked. 4 crew members were injured in this attack. Everyone present on the ship had to be evacuated immediately. Meanwhile, news of drone attack on Oman’s Duqm Port has also come to light, which has increased fear and uncertainty in the entire region.
oman According to the US Maritime Security Centre, the Palau-flagged oil tanker ‘Skylight’ was targeted about 5 nautical miles off Khasab Port in Musandam province. There were a total of 20 people on the ship. These included 15 Indian and 5 Iranian citizens. All the people were evacuated safely, but 4 people are said to be injured and have been sent to the hospital for treatment.
Why has the threat to the Strait of Hormuz increased?
- This attack on the oil tanker came at a time when Iran’s military Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had warned that the Strait of Hormuz was closed to international ships. Although Iran did not officially declare a complete blockade, many ships were warned over the radio that passage was not allowed.
- The British Navy said that these orders are not legally binding, but ships have been advised to exercise caution. European Naval Mission officials also admitted that maritime traffic was being increasingly affected.
- The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through this route. Qatar’s LNG (gas) exports also take place largely through this route. Therefore it is considered the world’s most important ‘oil choke point’.
- After increasing tension, many oil companies and shipping companies have stopped their ships from this route. Some ships were seen parked near Fujairah in UAE, while many tankers returned. Big shipping companies like Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd and France’s CMA CGM have also stopped passing through here.
- Marine insurance companies have also stopped insurance cover for this area, making sailing extremely risky.
- According to reports, Iran also stopped three ships of Pakistan from entering Hormuz. Some ships were stopped at the ports of UAE and Pakistan.
How did the crisis start?
This entire crisis started after the joint US-Israeli attacks, in which Iran’s top leadership was targeted. After this, missile attacks and military tension increased in the entire region.
Will the price of oil reach $100 per barrel?
Its effect is also visible in the oil market. There is a fear that the price of crude oil may reach $ 100 per barrel. Experts say that if this route remains closed for a long time, about 20% of the world’s oil supply may be affected.
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