Maritime security agencies confirmed that a commercial tanker was struck by an unknown projectile off the coast of Oman on Friday night, keeping regional shipping lines on high alert. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) stated that the vessel was hit on its port bow six nautical miles east of Oman, though the crew is safe and no environmental damage has been reported. The incident follows a tense week in the Gulf of Oman that saw attacks on multiple commercial vessels, prompting India’s Ministry of External Affairs to summon the US envoy and lodge a formal protest over maritime use of force affecting international mariners. However, a major diplomatic breakthrough may be imminent. Pakistan’s Prime Minister announced on Saturday that a final text for a comprehensive US-Iran peace accord has been agreed upon, signaling that a formal signing could take place within the next 24 hours. The potential deal aims to stabilize the region and secure the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade artery for the entire GCC block.
