Riyadh(The COW News Digital) Two separate attacks targeted commercial tankers near the Saudi Arabian coast close to Jubail, prompting investigations by authorities. All crew members aboard both vessels were reported safe, and no environmental impact was reported following the incidents.
According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the first incident occurred approximately 68 nautical miles (126 kilometres) northeast of Jubail, where a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile.
The crew members were safely evacuated, and there were no reports of environmental damage following the attack. Details about the vessel, the source of the projectile and the circumstances surrounding the incident were not immediately available.
A second attack was reported in a separate incident approximately 78 nautical miles (144 kilometres) northeast of Jubail.
According to the initial information, the tanker was targeted with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) fired from a small boat. The projectile struck the vessel’s accommodation area, causing damage.
All crew members aboard the second tanker were also reported safe. Authorities have initiated investigations into both incidents to establish the circumstances of the attacks and determine who was responsible.
The two incidents have raised fresh concerns about the safety of commercial shipping operating in waters near Saudi Arabia. Tankers play a significant role in transporting energy supplies and other commodities through regional maritime routes, making security incidents a concern for shipping companies and international maritime authorities.
The UKMTO regularly issues alerts about suspicious activity, attacks and other security incidents affecting commercial vessels. Such reports help ships operating in potentially sensitive waters assess risks and follow relevant safety guidance.
However, the available information does not establish whether the two attacks were connected or whether a particular group was responsible. No details were provided about the identities of the attackers or their possible motives.
The damage reported in the second incident was limited, according to the initial account, to the vessel’s accommodation area. The full extent of the damage and whether the tanker could continue its journey were not immediately clear.
The absence of reported environmental damage is significant because attacks involving oil tankers can raise concerns about potential spills and marine pollution. Any damage to a vessel carrying petroleum products can create additional risks, depending on the location and severity of the incident.
Investigations are expected to help clarify the sequence of events and provide further information about the weapons used and the circumstances surrounding both attacks.
For now, all crew members have been accounted for, and no environmental impact has been reported. Further details are expected as authorities continue examining the incidents.
