UAE Blames Iran for Attack on ADNOC Tanker in Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates has accused Iran of attacking a vessel operated by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) while it was passing through the Strait of Hormuz on Friday. The Emirati state news agency WAM reported the incident, noting that no injuries were sustained and the situation was brought under control.

The UAE foreign ministry issued a statement calling on Tehran to stop what it described as unprovoked attacks, end hostilities, and fully reopen the waterway. Iran has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.

This marks the third such attack on ADNOC vessels in less than a week, with the UAE attributing the earlier incidents to Iran as well. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, said Abu Dhabi would defend its sovereignty and interests, while affirming a commitment to freedom of navigation and a preference for diplomatic solutions.

Separately, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency reported that a bulk carrier was struck by an unknown projectile in the strait on Friday. It remains unclear whether this refers to the same vessel involved in the ADNOC incident.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between Oman and Iran, is a critical artery for global energy supplies, carrying roughly a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas. Shipping through the waterway has faced repeated disruptions since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran in late February, driving up freight rates and raising security concerns across the industry.

ADNOC, one of the world's largest energy producers, exports crude oil, natural gas, and refined products globally from its base in Abu Dhabi.