Stories from Fujairah · UAE

The US Navy reported targeting seven small boats. The boats were described as small and were engaged by naval forces. The IRGC issued guidance for shipping companies. The US Navy has denied food shortage claims related to the operation. The US Navy's Central Command denied Iranian media reports that two missiles struck a US warship. Al-Arabiya and South Korea reported that a vessel was bombed, and Al-Arabiya also stated that the Fujairah oil industry zone was targeted by drone attacks. US President Trump stated on social media that Iran had attacked unrelated countries, including a South Korean vessel, and that the US had struck seven small Iranian vessels. Analysts suggest Iran is employing an 'avalanche tactic' by targeting US warships with missiles to push the situation to the brink of conflict.

Twenty-four sailors have been located in waters near the United Arab Emirates. The report noted discussions regarding whether Iran targeted a vessel during a strait crossing, following claims by the UAE of an attack on an Emirati ship.

Explosions have been reported in Fujairah and at Saqr Port in the United Arab Emirates. Reports from the UAE also mention the interception of missiles and drones. Additionally, explosions were noted in Oman near the Strait of Hormuz. Reports indicate explosions occurred in Oman near the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera Arabic. The United Arab Emirates stated that its Fujairah oil industry zone was attacked by drones, resulting in three injuries. Al-Noora reported that vessels were bombed and the Fujairah oil industrial zone was targeted by drone strikes.

The maritime security threat level remains extremely high, with navigation risks continuing to increase. Oman reported that two people were injured following a hit on a residential building. The attack targeted the UAE's largest namesake port and oil terminal, causing a fire. South Korea reported potential attacks on its vessel anchored near the UAE. Missile alerts were issued in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with approximately five alerts recorded in Dubai today. The Iranian military stated that a US military destroyer closed its radar in the Gulf of Oman while attempting to approach the Strait of Hormuz. Authorities in the country have demanded an immediate end to the aggressive actions following the drone strike. The government confirmed the attacks targeted oil installations. Supply teams have been deployed to the site to manage the fire.

An attempted attack involving gunfire was reported near an oil community in Fujairah. Iran has denied reports of sinking warships in the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows Iran's claim of firing warning shots at US warships. Civilian authorities have immediately begun addressing the fire and are working to control it and prevent its spread. Authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah are currently working to bring the fire under control. Four Iranian drones were involved in the incident, with three being intercepted and one successfully striking the oil field. Admiral Cooper confirmed that vessels had also been targeted during the engagement. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates reported a strong fire broke out at an oil industrial complex in the Emirate of Fujairah following a strike by an Iranian UAV. Iran has condemned the attack, suggesting it was an Emirati retaliation.

President Trump announced that the United States will begin Project Libertad on Monday morning, aiming to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Former President Trump announced an operation aimed at freeing merchant ports. Global airlines are rerouting flights in the Middle East due to heightened tensions. The action is being presented as a humanitarian effort to rescue vessels and sailors stranded in the strait for several weeks. The operation aims to prevent crews from suffering from hunger and thirst due to the ongoing maritime delays. The announcement was reported by BBC Radio 4 and BBC World Service. Military mobilization and negotiations are occurring in the Hormuz Strait. Iran has responded to Trump's proposals. The Trump administration is proposing a military operation aimed at breaking Iran's potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The potential closure of the Bab el-Mandeb straits could be extended by an additional two months. An alternative pipeline located outside the straits in Fujairah allows for the transport of Saudi Arabian petroleum.

The UAE's Fujairah Port is playing an increasing role in oil exports to bypass potential blockades of the Strait of Hormuz. Data indicates the UAE accounts for 10% to 15% of OPEC oil production.

A state-owned oil company in the United Arab Emirates has notified long-term customers that ship-to-ship transfers can occur in May at the Fujairah port outside the Persian Gulf.

A blockade of the Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Hormuz could drive oil prices higher and increase global inflation pressures. Iran is reportedly reusing an old supertanker as a floating barge to bypass oil transport congestion.