The key facts

  • Second attack on a tanker in the same area off Saudi Arabia within one day (UKMTO)
  • The incident occurred on Friday at 19:22 GMT approximately 78 nautical miles northeast of Al Jubail
  • Crews of both vessels are safe; damage and environmental consequences are being assessed

Second incident in the same area

United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Saturday a second attack on a tanker in the same area off the coast of Saudi Arabia. According to the UKMTO advisory, the incident occurred on Friday at 19:22 GMT approximately 78 nautical miles (144 km) northeast of Al Jubail.

Circumstances of the attack

The captain of the tanker reported that the vessel was attacked with a grenade fired from a small boat; the damage was to the port side aft of the hull. All crew members are accounted for and are safe. A full assessment of the damage and possible environmental impact was not available at the time of the report.

First attack

Earlier on Saturday, UKMTO reported that another tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile approximately 68 nautical miles (126 km) northeast of Al Jubail, also on Friday. In that incident, the entire crew was safely evacuated, and no environmental impact was recorded.

Authorities' response

The incidents are being investigated. Vessels in the area are advised to proceed with caution and report any suspicious activity.