UAE Tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah Struck by Iranian Missiles in Strait of Hormuz; 1 Indian Crew Member Killed
Two UAE tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in the Strait of Hormuz. One Indian crew member died, and eight others were injured. The UAE condemned the attack as a major violation of international law. This incident follows reported missile strikes by Iran against various US-linked military facilities across the region.
Two United Arab Emirates (UAE) tankers were struck by cruise missiles in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, July 14, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries among the crew. The incident, which occurred in Omani territorial waters, has prompted a strong condemnation from UAE officials as regional tensions escalate.
Incident Details and Casualties
According to the Emirates News Agency, citing the UAE Ministry of Defense, the tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah were transiting the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz when they were hit by two Iranian cruise missiles. Iran Rejects Donald Trump’s ‘Guardian’ Claims, Vows Forceful Response to US Military Interference in Strait of Hormuz.
The strike on the Mombasa resulted in the death of one Indian crew member. Eight other individuals were injured, four of whom sustained serious wounds. The group of injured includes six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals. Fires broke out on both vessels following the impact. Authorities confirmed that these fires have since been brought under control, though both tankers sustained significant material damage.
UAE Ministry of Defense Issues Statement
The Ministry of Defence announces that the national tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah were targeted by two Iranian cruise missiles while transiting the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, within Omani territorial waters.
The attack resulted in the death of one Indian… pic.twitter.com/i1HrXY0fKP
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) July 13, 2026
Official Response and Condemnation
The UAE Ministry of Defense issued a firm statement regarding the attack, labeling it "a serious violation of international law that threatens regional security and stability." The ministry emphasized that the UAE "reserves the full right to respond to the escalation and will take all necessary measures to protect its territory, people, residents, national interests and strategic assets." Officials have urged the public to rely exclusively on official channels for updates and to avoid circulating unverified reports. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a separate statement echoing these sentiments and condemning the aggression. Donald Trump Announces 20% Strait of Hormuz Toll, Bars Iranian Ships From Key Waterway.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The attack occurs amidst a broader period of regional instability. On Sunday, the UAE Ministry of Defense reported that its air defense systems were engaged in countering missile and drone threats, while authorities in Bahrain advised residents to seek shelter as a precautionary measure. Reports from Press TV indicate a wider pattern of hostilities, noting that recent strikes attributed to Iran have targeted various facilities across the region. These reportedly include a Patriot air defense system, an ammunition depot, and a military radar facility in Kuwait, as well as communications and radar infrastructure in Bahrain. Additionally, reports suggest a ballistic missile strike was launched against the Al Udeid airbase in Qatar.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2026 07:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).