Oil prices have increased following the United Kingdom’s report that three ships were hit off Iran’s coast, including one in the Strait of Hormuz.
Three cargo ships were hit by suspected projectiles off Iran’s coast on Wednesday morning, as reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations.
One of the ships reported being struck 11 nautical miles north of Oman in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire onboard and forcing the crew to evacuate, the UKMTO said.
The UKMTO urged vessels in the area to proceed with caution and report any suspicious activity while authorities continue their investigation.
The news follows U.S. forces sinking several Iranian ships on Tuesday, including 16 minelayers, near the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. Central Command.
Tuesday night, President Trump posted on Truth Social: “If Iran has put out any mines in the Hormuz Strait, and we have no reports of them doing so, we want them removed, IMMEDIATELY! If for any reason mines were placed, and they are not removed forthwith, the Military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before. If, on the other hand, they remove what may have been placed, it will be a giant step in the right direction! Additionally, we are using the same Technology and Missile capabilities deployed against Drug Traffickers to permanently eliminate any boat or ship attempting to mine the Hormuz Strait. They will be dealt with quickly and violently. BEWARE!”
In a follow up post, the President wrote: “I am pleased to report that within the last few hours, we have hit, and completely destroyed, 10 inactive mine laying boats and/or ships, with more to follow! President DONALD J. TRUMP”
Roughly 20% of global oil and gas passes through the Strait each year.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
