Iraqi authorities revealed that Iran attacked two foreign oil tankers in Iraqi waters in the Persian Gulf, resulting in at least one death while 38 crew members were safely rescued.
Farhan Al-Fartousi, director of Iraq's Ports Company, told CNN that officials were able to rescue 38 crew members from both tankers, with one fatality. All crew members were foreigners, but details about injuries or ship damage have not yet been disclosed.
Earlier, Iraqi security sources in Basra reported that they believe Iranian vessels equipped with explosives collided with the two oil tankers. Following the incident, authorities temporarily suspended oil port operations in the area and are currently investigating.
Saad Man, major general and head of media for Iraq's Joint Operations Command, stated that the attack occurred within Iraqi sovereign waters and constitutes a violation of the country's sovereignty. He emphasized that Iraq reserves the right to take legal action regarding this incident.
Video footage reviewed by CNN shows both oil tankers engulfed in heavy flames, with fire spreading onto the sea surface, likely due to leaking oil. Shipping tracking data indicates the two vessels were anchored close to each other when the attack happened.
The burning vessels include the oil tanker Zefyros, flying the Maltese flag, and the oil tanker Safesea Vishnu, flying the flag of the Marshall Islands.
Data indicates that Safesea Vishnu belongs to Safesea Transport Inc., based in the United States, while the Zefyros is owned by a Greek company.
Iraq's State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO) stated that both tankers were attacked while in the cargo handling area of Iraqi waters. The Zefyros was preparing to enter Khor Al-Zubair Port carrying condensate intended for Basra Gas Company.
Source:CNN
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