Container Ship Catches Fire Off Oman Coast After Damage; Crew Escapes by Lifeboat

July 12, 2026

London: A container ship caught fire after sustaining damage off the coast of Oman, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said. The incident occurred amid rising tensions in the region, shortly after fresh military strikes involving the US and Iran.

According to UKMTO, the incident was reported around 16.7 km east of Oman at 2240 GMT on Saturday. Military authorities reported that the vessel suffered damage to its rear section, which led to a fire onboard. The name of the ship was not immediately disclosed by UKMTO.

British Crew Members Evacuate Vessel Safely

Reports said the crew members of the affected vessel abandoned the ship and escaped using a lifeboat after the onboard fire broke out. No immediate details about casualties were reported.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, while maritime security agencies continue monitoring the situation in the region.

Incident Occurs Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions

The incident took place at a time when tensions have intensified around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key global shipping corridor, particularly for energy shipments, and recent security incidents have raised concerns over the safety of commercial vessels operating in the area.

US Central Command Reports Separate Vessel Attack

Separately, the US Central Command said that the Cyprus-flagged container ship GFS Galaxy was attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) while travelling through the Strait of Hormuz.

The US military said the vessel suffered significant engine room damage and an onboard fire, leaving it unable to continue its journey. A crew member was reported missing following the incident.

Authorities are continuing to assess the situation as maritime activity remains under close watch amid heightened regional tensions.