KUWAIT CITY, March 5, (V7N) – A large explosion struck a tanker in waters off Kuwait on Thursday, leading to an oil spill and further escalating concerns about maritime security in the Gulf amid the ongoing US-Iran-Israel conflict.

Explosion and Oil Spill: The explosion occurred on the port side of a tanker anchored off Kuwait’s Mubarak Al-Kabeer area, as reported by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The ship's crew reported hearing a loud blast, followed by the sight of a small craft leaving the area. The incident resulted in an oil spill from one of the ship’s cargo tanks, which has raised environmental concerns.

Location of Incident: According to Kuwait’s Interior Ministry, the explosion took place at least 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Kuwaiti territorial waters, well outside the nation’s borders. This highlights the growing risks to ships passing through the region amidst the heightened tensions in the Gulf.

Iran's Strait of Hormuz Control: The explosion comes amid claims by Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards that they have "complete control" over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical shipping lanes globally, through which much of the world’s oil passes. The region has seen increasing military activity since the start of the US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Impact on Shipping: Chinese shipping giant Cosco, one of the world’s largest oil tanker fleets, has announced a suspension of all services to and from Gulf countries starting Wednesday, including Kuwait. The suspension is a direct response to the escalating conflict and the growing risks to Gulf maritime shipping.

The attack is part of a broader escalation in the region, where the US, Israel, and Iran have been engaged in military actions that have disrupted not only diplomatic relations but also critical global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point, with shipping companies now taking extra precautions due to the heightened danger.

END/WD/RH