A cargo vessel sailing through the Strait of Hormuz reported being hit by an unknown projectile overnight, leaving one seafarer missing and the ship in a complete blackout with fires breaking out in crew accommodation areas.
The Liberian-flagged bulker Minoan Pioneer was struck approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Khasab, Oman, according to the Royal Navy’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The vessel’s crew reported a direct hit to the engine room, which caused a total loss of power across the ship.
Maritime security firm Marisks confirmed that the vessel suffered a complete blackout following the projectile strike. Fires subsequently erupted in the crew living quarters, compounding the emergency situation aboard the Greek-owned bulker. UKMTO issued a warning to all vessels transiting the waterway.
The incident occurred as the United States and Iran continued negotiations over the future of the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil passes daily. The attack is the latest in a series of disruptions to shipping through the strait since the US-Israel war on Iran began in late February 2026.
Since the conflict erupted, the Strait of Hormuz has experienced severe disruptions, with periodic shutdowns of commercial traffic. Iran has periodically fired warning shots at passing vessels and has targeted tankers with cruise missiles, while the US has maintained a naval blockade to pressure Tehran into negotiations.
The timing of the strike is notable, coming just hours before US officials signaled that a deal to reopen the strait could be imminent. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters there had been progress in talks with Iran and Oman, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a deal could be reached as early as Tuesday.
Under the emerging framework, ships would enter the Persian Gulf through an Iranian-controlled route and exit through an Oman-controlled corridor, with service fees charged for security and environmental preservation. The arrangement has drawn criticism from those who say it effectively cedes control of an international waterway to Tehran.
Sources: Riviera Maritime Media, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, CNN
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