SEATTLE (Oil Monster): Iran launched a drone strike on the Kuwaiti crude oil tanker Al Salmi anchored off Dubai early Tuesday, escalating tensions across the Gulf and raising fresh concerns over global energy security. The attack caused a fire and damage to the vessel’s hull, marking another incident targeting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Dubai authorities confirmed that maritime firefighting teams swiftly extinguished the blaze, and no oil spill was reported. All 24 crew members aboard the tanker were safe, with no injuries recorded. Kuwait Petroleum Corporation stated that the vessel, carrying nearly two million barrels of crude oil sourced from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, was struck while anchored at Dubai port.
ALSO READ:
Black Sea Drone Strike Hits Oil Tanker Near Bosphorus, Crew Safe
Russia's Baltic ports halt oil loadings after heavy Ukrainian drone attack
The attack followed warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened action against Iran’s energy infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. The waterway handles a significant share of global oil shipments, making disruptions highly sensitive.
Crude prices briefly surged on the news, with Brent crude on track for sharp monthly gains before easing slightly. Meanwhile, additional U.S. forces have been deployed to the region, underscoring rising geopolitical and economic risks.
