A cargo vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The incident marks another escalation in maritime violence at one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, where roughly a fifth of global oil supplies pass daily.
The attack reinforces the ongoing risk premium embedded in energy and shipping markets.
Brent crude has remained elevated as traders price in the potential for further disruptions to Gulf exports.
Shipping equities and tanker rates have also reflected heightened caution, with operators increasingly wary of the corridor’s safety.
This latest strike follows a pattern of intermittent hostilities in the region, with previous incidents involving both commercial and military vessels.