Cargo Vessel Explosion In The Arabian Gulf

ARABIAN GULF — An unknown projectile struck a cargo vessel on its starboard side in the Persian Gulf on June 1, causing a large explosion.

The location of the strike was approximately 40 nautical miles southeast of Umm Qasr, Iraq. Environmental impact of the strike is currently unknown. Authorities are investigating the incident.

The vessel has been identified as the Panama-flagged MSC SARISKA V (IMO 8715857), a 36-year-old container ship operated by Mediterranean Shipping Company that had recently unloaded cargo at Umm Qasr port and was proceeding toward Qatar.

Iraqi media, including Alsumaria News citing a security source, reported the explosion occurred near buoy number 5 in Iraqi territorial waters after the vessel completed unloading at Umm Qasr port and departed around 08:52 local time.

AIS data showed the vessel executing a tight loop immediately after the event before continuing its transit at low speed. Damage to the starboard side at the waterline was reported

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) classified the incident as an unknown projectile strike while Iraqi sources described a mechanical malfunction inside the vessel.

Investigation Status

Military authorities received the initial report and are conducting the investigation. The UKMTO confirmed no known environmental impact at the time of the warning. The incident remains under active review with no further findings released.

Vessel Transit Advisory

Vessels transiting the area are advised to proceed with caution. Any suspicious activity must be reported immediately to UKMTO. The warning provides contact channels for direct reporting.

Official Statements

• UK Maritime Trade Operations, June 1: “UKMTO has received a report of an incident 40NM southeast of Umm Qasr, Iraq. A Cargo vessel was transiting in the Arabian Gulf when a large explosion following a hit from an unknown projectile on the starboard side. UKMTO is unaware of any environmental impact at this time. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.”