The UAE is out with a statement condemning the attack as one of its ADNOC crude oil tanker was targeted by two Iranian drones off the coast of Oman. It is reported that no crew members were injured and that the vessel was not carrying any cargo at the time.
This follows the he said, she said episode between the US and Iran on missiles being fired at a US warship. Iran media has said that it has prevented US warships from entering the strait while the US has categorically denied the news, saying that Iran is “making stuff up”.
Either way, things do not look great. If Iran is holding tight control over the strait still, then there is really no further progress since last week. And if the US does manage to make some inroad, it’s not much as noted earlier here. And even then, the terms for crossing are pretty risky as noted in the linked post.
“The UKMTO says that vessels choosing to transit with the US’ help should consider routing via Oman’s territorial waters south of the TSS. However, they also warn that mariners should expect increased naval presence, enhanced force protection postures, and potential VHF hailing if they are to proceed.”
It’s not as great or hopeful as what markets would like to think, I’m afraid.
