Six Tankers Struck by Projectiles in Strait of Hormuz
Unknown projectiles struck six tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the U.S. to deploy 10,000 troops and India to join a maritime security coalition.
At least six tankers were struck by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz between September 28 and October 2, 2026. The attacks, which included strikes on the Al Ruwais, Sinbad, Mersin Prosperity, and the Kuwait-flagged MT Kazimah III, occurred amid a stalemate in U.S.-Iran talks and a U.S. blockade of Iranian oil. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority claimed some targets were on a non-compliant list for unauthorized transits, though some vessels hit were not on that list.
On October 2, the MT Kazimah III was struck on its port side approximately four nautical miles east of Oman while en route to Lome, Togo. The strike caused a small fire and a blackout on one vessel, though no casualties or environmental damage were reported. The Embassy of India in Oman coordinated the rescue of five Indian nationals from the MT Kazimah III, who were shifted safely ashore with assistance from Omani authorities.
In response to the escalating instability, the United States is deploying a third carrier strike group and up to 10,000 troops to the region, while U.S. Central Command has redirected 125 vessels to enforce the oil blockade. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned the attacks as "completely unacceptable" at the 81st United Nations General Assembly and announced that India has joined a coalition of 24 nations to protect commercial shipping routes. The Indian government is currently monitoring the safety of over 4,500 Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf.
