Oman Rescues Sailors After Tanker Attack in Gulf of Oman

The Cliff News | 31 October 2026

Oman announced Friday its navy successfully evacuated 25 sailors from the merchant vessel RITI after it was targeted in an attack that caused a significant fire. The incident occurred in the Gulf of Oman, a critical maritime artery, amid escalating tensions in the region.

The RITI, identified as a crude oil tanker flying the Panamanian flag, was struck by an unknown projectile, leading to the blaze. The Omani Maritime Security Centre confirmed the successful evacuation and stated the rescued crew members received medical care, although further details were not immediately available.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions Escalate

This attack comes as maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz faces increasing disruption. Iran has reportedly halted three oil tankers while they were crossing the vital waterway, a move linked to the ongoing conflict that erupted on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic.

The Strait of Hormuz, responsible for approximately one-fifth of global oil transit, has become a focal point of the regional conflict, with vessels frequently reporting being subjected to Iranian fire. The situation underscores the growing risks for international shipping in the area.

U.S. Forces Maintain Strait Security

In response to the heightened risks, U.S. Central Command chief Brad Cooper stated that U.S. forces have been actively engaged in ensuring the safety of transit routes. In a video released on Friday, Cooper confirmed that American forces had “successfully cleared the strait's internationally recognised primary transit routes of Iranian sea mines.”

He reiterated the U.S. commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, noting the continued presence of American forces to guarantee unimpeded passage. Cooper also highlighted the significant role the U.S. has played in supporting Gulf countries, enabling the export of over 1.5 billion barrels of crude oil via the strait since the summer.

Recent Maritime Incidents

The attack on the RITI is the latest in a series of concerning incidents affecting shipping in the region. The British Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Friday that a separate vessel, located 40 nautical miles south of Lavan Island in Iran, was struck by an unknown projectile, resulting in an onboard fire.

These incidents collectively paint a picture of a volatile maritime environment, where commercial shipping faces considerable threats, compounded by regional geopolitical instability.