UAE Accuses Iran of Attacking ADNOC Tankers in Strait of Hormuz
Missile Strike Hits ADNOC Vessel in Strait of Hormuz
The United Arab Emirates government has condemned an attack on an Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) vessel transiting the Strait of Hormuz, characterizing the incident as an act of piracy. The UAE Foreign Ministry stated that the vessel was targeted by a missile early Saturday. Officials confirmed the situation was brought under control with no injuries to the crew.
Accusations of State-Sponsored Interference
Following the strike, the UAE Foreign Ministry issued a formal condemnation, accusing Iran of violating United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding freedom of navigation. The ministry alleged that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) are utilizing the strategic waterway as a mechanism for economic pressure. The UAE has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the unconditional reopening of the strait to commercial traffic.
Tehran has previously issued warnings regarding the transit of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the IRGC may take action against ships linked to regional adversaries or those that fail to adhere to Iranian maritime directives.
A Growing Toll on ADNOC Assets
ADNOC reported that it has faced a series of unprovoked attacks on its personnel and assets since the onset of the current conflict on February 28. According to the company’s internal data, 15 of its vessels have been struck by missiles or drones while navigating the strait during this period. These incidents have resulted in one crew member fatality and 20 injuries.
Three of these attacks occurred within the current week alone. Despite these security challenges, ADNOC maintains that it continues to fulfill its supply obligations to international customers for crude oil, natural gas, and refined products.
Global Energy Markets Brace for Volatility
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy artery, with approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through the narrow passage between Oman and Iran. The frequency of attacks on commercial shipping has led to a documented rise in freight rates and heightened security concerns for international maritime insurers and operators.
Market reactions were immediate, with global oil prices rising on Saturday following reports of the strike. As of the latest updates, there has been no formal response from Iranian state media regarding the specific allegations, and the UAE has yet to announce further military or diplomatic countermeasures beyond its initial condemnation and call for international intervention.