UAE Tug Struck by Missiles While Assisting Abandoned Container Ship in Strait of Hormuz
A UAE-registered tugboat was reportedly struck by missiles while attempting to assist the abandoned container ship Safeen Prestige in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in the death of all crew members on board.
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), third-party reports confirmed that the tug was hit by unknown projectiles 6 nautical miles north of Oman. Maritime security firm Vanguard Tech confirmed that the UAE-flagged tug Mussafah 2 was struck by two missiles during rescue operations. All eight crew members on board the tug are believed to have perished in the attack 18 nautical miles off Khasab, Oman.
The Malta-registered Safeen Prestige has been adrift since 4 March after suffering a missile strike above the waterline at the stern, which ignited a fire in the engine room. The feeder ship’s crew safely abandoned the vessel without injuries following the incident.
Equasis records indicate that Mussafah 2 is managed by Abu Dhabi Marine Services and owned by Abu Dhabi Ports. Safeen, the marine services brand of Abu Dhabi Ports, also operates the regional container carrier Safeen Feeders, highlighting its crucial role in Gulf shipping logistics.
