Oil tanker hit off Oman coast as drone strikes escalate regional tensions

Sunday 01 March 2026 - 11:01

A commercial oil tanker sailing under the Palau flag was struck off the coast of Oman on Sunday, leaving four crew members injured, according to the country’s maritime security authorities. The incident occurred shortly after drone strikes targeted the commercial port of Duqm, marking a significant escalation in regional hostilities.

Oman’s Maritime Security Centre reported that the tanker, identified as the Skylight, was hit approximately five nautical miles north of Khasab Port, located on the Musandam Peninsula. While officials confirmed the attack, they did not immediately clarify the type of weapon involved.

The vessel’s 20-member crew was evacuated as a precautionary measure. Preliminary reports indicate that four crew members sustained injuries of varying severity. The crew consisted of 15 Indian nationals and five Iranian nationals.

The developments represent the first known strikes affecting Omani territory or nearby waters since tensions intensified following retaliatory actions by Tehran against several Gulf states. Those actions came after joint military operations carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran, further destabilizing an already fragile regional landscape.

The Musandam Peninsula occupies a strategically vital position, sharing oversight of the Strait of Hormuz with Iran. The strait is considered one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, as approximately 20 percent of global oil consumption transits through its narrow waters each day. Any disruption in this corridor can have immediate consequences for global energy markets.

Earlier the same day, Oman’s state news agency confirmed that two drones struck the commercial port of Duqm, injuring one expatriate worker. Authorities have not yet disclosed the origin of the drones or provided additional details regarding the extent of the damage.

Security analysts warn that the targeting of maritime assets and port infrastructure in Oman could signal a widening of the conflict zone in the Gulf region. As investigations continue, regional governments and international observers remain on alert for further developments that could impact global trade routes and energy supplies.