Tanker hit by two unidentified projectiles off Saudi Arabia

A tanker travelling through the Arabian Gulf was struck by two unidentified projectiles off the coast of Saudi Arabia on Sunday, November 1, amid a series of maritime security incidents in the region.

In a warning posted on X on Monday, November 2, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the incident occurred approximately 72 nautical miles east of Ras Al Khafji, Saudi Arabia, at 2347 UTC on Sunday.

The vessel was travelling southeast when two unknown projectiles struck its port side, according to a report from the ship’s master.

All crew members were accounted for, and no environmental impact had been reported at the time of the warning. UKMTO advised vessels operating in the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity while authorities investigate.

Other recent maritime incidents

Earlier on Sunday, UKMTO reported an incident in the Strait of Hormuz after the master of a merchant vessel received a Mayday call over VHF Channel 16. The caller reported that another vessel had been struck by an unidentified projectile. Authorities were investigating the incident.

In another development, UKMTO reclassified the boarding of a large fishing vessel by unauthorised personnel on October 30, as a hijacking in an update posted on Sunday. The organisation said authorities were concerned that the incident could form part of a Pirate Action Group (PAG).

The incidents come amid heightened maritime security concerns across the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, where commercial shipping has faced growing risks. Attacks on vessels and tighter restrictions on maritime movement have added to uncertainty for ships navigating the region’s key international trade routes.

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