Iran Strait of Hormuz Tensions Rise After Ship Attack Delays IMO Escort Mission

A reported attack on a cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz has prompted the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) to temporarily suspend its ship escort mission, raising fresh concerns over the fragile agreement aimed at ending the Iran conflict.

The Singapore-flagged cargo vessel Ever Lovely was reportedly struck by a projectile near Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Security officials believe the ship may have been targeted by a drone. Two U.S. officials told Reuters they believe Iran was responsible for the attack, although Tehran has not directly confirmed the claim.

The incident occurred shortly after Iranian authorities warned that vessels traveling through the Strait of Hormuz must use routes approved by Tehran. Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority stated that ships sailing outside designated corridors would not be guaranteed safe passage. Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly ordered two Panama-flagged vessels to change course, reinforcing Iran's control over the strategic waterway.

In response, the IMO paused its recently launched voluntary evacuation program, which was designed to help hundreds of stranded ships and thousands of seafarers safely exit the Gulf through routes in Iranian and Omani waters. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said the suspension would remain in place while the organization reviews safety guarantees for ships operating in the region. The attacked vessel was not part of the escort program.

The renewed tensions pushed global oil prices nearly 2% higher as investors worried about disruptions to energy exports. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important shipping lanes, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies before the conflict began.

The latest developments also highlight ongoing disagreements surrounding the preliminary U.S.-Iran peace framework. While U.S. officials continue to urge Iran not to interfere with commercial shipping, Tehran insists it will maintain authority over navigation in the strait. Negotiations are expected to continue over the next 60 days, focusing on unresolved issues such as Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, maritime security, and regional stability.