Iran Confirms Attack on Qatari LNG Tanker in Strait of Hormuz After Ignoring Warnings

Iran officially confirmed on Monday that its Revolutionary Guards forces attacked at least one tanker carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) while it was transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The attack occurred after the tanker ignored warnings issued by Iranian forces in the area, according to a report broadcast on Iranian state television. Earlier, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker near Oman was attacked with an unknown weapon about 15 kilometers east of the port of Lima in eastern Oman.

The attack caused a fire in the engine room of the vessel, but there were no casualties or environmental damage reported. International maritime sources identified the tanker as the Al Rekayyat, a Qatari-owned LNG carrier. The fire was brought under control by firefighting teams, and the tanker continued sailing toward a safe port. The damage to the vessel was described as significant.

Western officials believe Iran is attempting to establish a mechanism to impose maritime transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz, potentially generating around $40 billion annually. The military views control over this vital waterway as a key leverage point in negotiations with the West.

These developments come amid recent nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran in Switzerland, mediated by Oman, which both sides described as constructive. However, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that he is considering all options, including resuming military action against Iran, stating, "Either there will be a deal with Iran, or we will finish the job."