**UAE Accuses Iran of Attacks on Two ADNOC Vessels in Strait of Hormuz**
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has condemned Iran for allegedly attacking two vessels associated with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The incidents occurred on Thursday evening, prompting a swift response from the UAE government, which characterized the actions as hostile and a direct threat to regional stability.
According to Emirati media reports, ADNOC confirmed that the two vessels were attacked while transiting the waterway. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incidents, and the situation was reportedly brought under control. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement early Friday morning, expressing strong condemnation of the Iranian actions and labeling them as a form of economic coercion that amounts to "piracy."
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping lane, through which a significant portion of the world's oil supply passes. The UAE's Foreign Ministry emphasized that Iran's attempts to exert control over the strait pose a direct threat not only to the stability of the region but also to global energy security. The statement highlighted the UAE's concerns regarding Iran's ongoing blockade of the strait and its plans to charge vessels for passage, which have been met with fierce opposition from the United States.
This recent attack follows a similar incident reported just days earlier, where another ADNOC tanker was targeted. The UAE has pointed to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as being responsible for these strikes, which have raised alarms among regional and Arab governments. Since the onset of the US-Israel conflict with Iran in February, ADNOC has reported a total of 15 attacks on its vessels while navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has not yet responded to the allegations made by the UAE regarding the attacks. However, the IRGC has previously issued warnings against vessels that are linked to Iran's adversaries or that fail to comply with Iranian directives while transiting the strait. The ongoing tensions in the region have led to increased military presence and blockades from both the United States and Iran, further complicating the situation.
In light of these developments, the UAE has announced plans to accelerate an oil pipeline project designed to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with potential disruptions in this critical maritime route. The UAE's proactive measures reflect its commitment to ensuring the security of its energy supplies amid rising tensions with Iran.
As diplomatic discussions continue, including talks between Iran and Oman regarding the future management of the Strait of Hormuz, the situation remains fluid. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, given the strait's significance for global trade and energy transport.