Explosion reported on merchant vessel in Strait of Hormuz

A merchant vessel was hit and caught fire while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to maritime security company Ambrey.

Company officials said the incident occurred on the southern route of the strait, north of Khasab, Oman, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Details about the condition of the crew and the nature of the cargo have not yet been disclosed.

Earlier, Iran claimed success in attacks on ships, including US Navy vessels, near the Strait of Hormuz, saying the strikes have prompted Washington to move its warships further from the Iranian coast.

The claim comes after US media reported that eight US Marines were injured on September 14 when an Iranian anti-ship cruise missile struck a maritime vessel they were operating on in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to NBC News, citing three US officials, the Marines suffered smoke inhalation and possible traumatic brain injuries, including concussion-like symptoms such as headaches. None of the eight was seriously injured, and all returned to duty shortly after the attack.

The officials said the Marines were part of a battalion landing team and that seven were enlisted personnel while one was an officer. They were not aboard a US Navy ship, and officials did not disclose the type of vessel involved.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov