Early this morning, a massive cargo vessel identified as the MSC Francesca was swarmed and hit by IRGC fast boats near the Omani coast. This escalation comes exactly as Tehran confirms they have received a formal U.S. counter-proposal, turning the Strait of Hormuz into a high-stakes hostage for the upcoming Pakistan-led negotiations.
“UKMTO has received a report of an incident 11NM west of Sirik, Iran. The Master of a northbound bulk carrier has reported being attacked by multiple small craft. All crew reported safe and no environmental impact reported. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO, authorities are investigating.”