A suicide boat struck two oil tankers near southern Iraq’s Basra port early Thursday, killing at least one crew member and injuring several others. The attack highlights growing threats to Iraq’s energy and shipping infrastructure. Security teams quickly responded to control fires and evacuate sailors, ensuring their safety.
Authorities are investigating the attack to determine the suicide boat’s origin. It is unclear whether it came from Iraqi waters, Iranian waters, or another location. Officials are collecting evidence to identify those responsible.
This strike follows a similar attack near Khor al-Zubair on March 5, when an explosive-laden boat targeted an anchored oil tanker. These incidents mark the first recorded use of suicide boats in Iraqi territorial waters during the current regional crisis.
The escalation comes after U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran on February 28, which caused civilian casualties and the deaths of senior officials. Iran’s retaliation has affected Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Rescue and security teams acted immediately to contain fires on both vessels. Sailors received medical attention, and port authorities confirmed that ongoing safety measures aim to prevent further attacks. Patrols and monitoring systems in southern Iraq’s ports have increased to protect shipping traffic.
Maritime experts warn that attacks on oil tankers could disrupt shipping in the Gulf of Oman and threaten global energy supplies. They emphasize the strategic vulnerability of Iraq’s southern ports, which remain critical for crude oil exports.
Despite the strike, local authorities continue port operations while reinforcing security. Teams coordinate with international partners to investigate the attack and strengthen maritime defense. The events underline the heightened risks faced by shipping vessels in southern Iraq amid ongoing regional tensions.
