May 4 (V7N)- A tanker was struck by unidentified projectiles off the coast of the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported Monday. The incident occurred 78 nautical miles north of Fujairah, though all crew members were confirmed safe.  

UKMTO urged vessels to transit the area with caution as investigations continue. The attack comes against the backdrop of stalled peace talks between the US and Iran following the April 8 ceasefire in the Middle East war.  

Iran has maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began, choking off vital flows of oil, gas, and fertilizer. In response, the United States imposed a naval blockade. President Donald Trump announced Sunday that US forces would begin escorting ships through the strait starting Monday under Project Freedom.  

US Central Command said the mission would involve guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members. Admiral Brad Cooper described the operation as essential to regional security and the global economy.  

Maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine reported that as of April 29, more than 900 commercial vessels remained in the Gulf, down from over 1,100 at the start of the conflict. 

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