Iranian cruise missiles struck two national tankers in the southern lane of the Strait of Hormuz, killing one crew member and wounding eight others.
The attack occurred in Omani territorial waters and follows recent US military strikes against Iranian targets in the region, marking a sharp escalation in hostilities.
The UAE Defense Ministry stated that the country retains its full right to respond and take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security.
This assertion signals potential further regional involvement as the conflict intensifies.
The direct targeting of commercial shipping in one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints poses an immediate threat to global oil supplies.
Markets are likely to react to the heightened risk of supply disruption, with Brent crude and tanker freight rates expected to face upward pressure.