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Agencies
Dubai
Suspected attacks left two tankers ablaze in the waters of the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, sparking fears of a broader conflict and sending world oil prices soaring. The mysterious incident came amid spiralling tensions between Iran and the US.
The United Nations has warned the world cannot afford “a major confrontation in the Gulf”. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres denounced Thursday’s incidents at a Security Council meeting, saying: “I strongly condemn any attack against civilian incidents. Facts must be established and responsibilities clarified.”
The Norwegian Maritime Authority said three explosions were reported on board the Norwegian-owned tanker Front Altair after it was “attacked” along with the Japanese-owned Kokuka Courageous.
Iran said its navy rescued 44 crew members after the two vessels, which were carrying highly inflammable material, caught fire. Footage aired on television showed thick, black plumes of smoke and flames billowing from one of the tankers as it lay out to sea.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the timing of the “reported attacks” was “suspicious”, coming as Japan’s prime minister held talks in Iran.
The US Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, said its warships had received separate distress calls from each vessel. The White House said US President Donald Trump was briefed on the suspected attacks and the government was assessing the situation. page 5
Dubai
Suspected attacks left two tankers ablaze in the waters of the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, sparking fears of a broader conflict and sending world oil prices soaring. The mysterious incident came amid spiralling tensions between Iran and the US.
The United Nations has warned the world cannot afford “a major confrontation in the Gulf”. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres denounced Thursday’s incidents at a Security Council meeting, saying: “I strongly condemn any attack against civilian incidents. Facts must be established and responsibilities clarified.”
The Norwegian Maritime Authority said three explosions were reported on board the Norwegian-owned tanker Front Altair after it was “attacked” along with the Japanese-owned Kokuka Courageous.
Iran said its navy rescued 44 crew members after the two vessels, which were carrying highly inflammable material, caught fire. Footage aired on television showed thick, black plumes of smoke and flames billowing from one of the tankers as it lay out to sea.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the timing of the “reported attacks” was “suspicious”, coming as Japan’s prime minister held talks in Iran.
The US Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, said its warships had received separate distress calls from each vessel. The White House said US President Donald Trump was briefed on the suspected attacks and the government was assessing the situation. page 5
