A commercial oil tanker was hit off the coast of Oman after drones struck the port of Duqm, causing explosions. Authorities warned nearby ships to avoid the area. The incident came after deadly U.S.-Israeli airstrikes against Ayatollah Khamenei, further heightening uncertainty in the region.
On Sunday, March 1st an oil tanker sailing under the flag of Palau was struck near Oman‘s Musandam Peninsula, injuring four people. This marks the first time targets in or near the country have been hit in the wake of Tehran’s retaliatory strikes on Persian Gulf states. The United States and Israel launched joint pre-emptive strikes against Iran on Saturday, killing supreme leader Ali Khamenei.
The 20 crew members of the Skylight tanker, 15 Indian and five Iranian nationals, were evacuated after the attack about five nautical miles north of the port of Musandam Khasab, with injuries ranging in severity.
Meanwhile, President Masoud Pezeshkian has taken over as interim supreme leader, signalling Tehran’s intent to maintain control and stability amid internal and external pressures. Analysts warn that this transition could lead to unpredictable decisions in domestic and foreign policy, raising the risk of further military conflicts.
In response to the attacks on the tanker and the port, as well as the leadership change in Iran, neighbouring countries and the international community are calling for immediate de-escalation. Shipping companies and maritime authorities are closely monitoring the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters for potential threats.
European Union and other international leaders continue to call for restraint and the protection of civilians, and have also welcomed the possibility of political change in the country.
