UAE: 15 vessels targeted in Strait of Hormuz since start of recent conflicts
The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has announced that 15 of its vessels have been targeted by missile and drone attacks in the Strait of Hormuz since the onset of ongoing regional conflicts. These attacks have resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to 20 others.
In a statement released on Friday, August 7, 2026, ADNOC reported that three of its ships were attacked this week alone while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The company noted that the escalating attacks on its vessels and personnel have significantly impacted operational activities, describing the current working environment as "extremely difficult."
Despite these challenges, ADNOC emphasized that it is working closely with relevant authorities to implement all necessary measures to protect its employees, assets, and operations. The company remains committed to meeting its obligations to customers to the fullest extent possible.
Highlighting the critical importance of maritime security, ADNOC stated that freedom of navigation and the safe, uninterrupted passage of commercial vessels through international waterways must be guaranteed, free from threats, harassment, or attacks.
The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and Oman, is a vital global energy corridor, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil consumption passing through the waterway. Since the escalation of the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran into a broader regional crisis, commercial shipping has faced frequent disruptions. The surge in attacks has heightened concerns regarding maritime security and rising shipping costs.
Earlier, on July 14, two tankers, the Mombasa and the Al Bahia, were hit by missiles in the southern Strait of Hormuz within Omani waters. At the time, the UAE Ministry of Defence held Iran responsible for the incident, which claimed the life of an Indian crew member and left eight others injured.