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Thursday, Mar 12, 2026

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Thailand Summons Iranian Envoy After Attack on Thai Cargo Ship Leaves Three Crew Missing

Bangkok demands explanation after projectiles strike Thai-flagged vessel in Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions.
Thailand’s government has summoned Iran’s ambassador to Bangkok following an attack on a Thai-flagged cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz that left three crew members missing and triggered alarm over the safety of international shipping.

The vessel, the bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, was struck by projectiles while sailing through the strategic waterway between Iran and Oman.

The attack caused a fire in the ship’s engine room, forcing most of the crew to abandon the vessel as emergency responders rushed to assist.

Of the twenty-three crew members on board, twenty were rescued by the Omani navy and brought to safety, while three sailors remain missing and are believed to have been trapped in the engine room during the explosion.

Thailand’s Foreign Ministry called in Iran’s envoy to seek clarification over the incident and to formally express concern about the safety of Thai citizens and commercial vessels operating in the region.

Officials emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting its nationals and ensuring that international maritime routes remain secure.

The cargo ship had departed from Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates and was en route to India when it was struck.

Images released after the incident showed thick smoke rising from the vessel as flames spread through parts of the engine section.

Authorities said rescue operations and assessments of the damage were continuing.

The incident occurred amid rising tensions across the Middle East and growing threats to shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.

Roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments travel through the narrow corridor, making any disruption there a major concern for international energy markets and trade.

Regional security tensions have already led to a series of attacks on commercial vessels in and around the strait in recent weeks, causing shipping companies and insurers to reassess risks in the area.

Analysts say the situation has sharply reduced maritime traffic through the waterway as ship operators weigh the dangers of transit.

Thailand’s leadership has closely monitored the crisis and moved to assist affected crew members while coordinating with international partners and maritime authorities.

Officials said diplomatic engagement would continue as the country seeks answers about the attack and works to secure the safe return of the missing sailors.
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