Tanker struck by projectile near Dubai, investigation underway: UKMTO

The UK Office of Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said Monday that an unknown projectile struck a tanker 31 nautical miles northwest of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

It said the tanker company’s security officer reported that an unknown projectile had struck their tanker on the starboard side, causing a fire on the vessel.

"The crew are accounted for and safe. No environmental impact has been reported," it added.

An investigation is underway.

The incident came as tensions in the Middle East have escalated since the US and Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran on Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.