Blast Near Iraq's Khor al Zubair Port Breaches Sonangol Namibe's Hull

On March 5, 2026, the Bahamas-flagged crude oil tanker Sonangol Namibe experienced a suspected hull breach after being struck by a blast while anchored near Iraq's Khor al Zubair port. The incident occurred at approximately 0120 local time when an unknown small vessel approached the tanker. Following the approach, a loud explosion was reported by the crew, who indicated that a port ballast tank was losing water, suggesting a breach in the hull. Despite the damage, the vessel remained stable and afloat, and there were no reports of pollution. At the time of the incident, the Sonangol Namibe was not carrying cargo and was scheduled to load 80,000 metric tons of Iraqi fuel under a contract with Iraq's state oil marketer, SOMO.

The Straits TimesUsNews and World ReportCrude tanker Sonangol Namibe reports suspected hull breach after blast near Iraq port

The Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they had targeted a U.S. tanker in the northern Gulf, which was reportedly on fire. This incident marks a significant escalation in maritime tensions in the region, with the Sonangol Namibe being the eighth confirmed merchant vessel to have been attacked recently. The vessel is owned by the Angolan state oil company, Sonangol, and has historically operated within the Stena Sonangol Suezmax Pool.

Crude tanker Sonangol Namibe reports suspected hull breach after blast near Iraq port

Sonangol Marine Services, the U.S. representative for the vessel, confirmed the incident and provided details about the hull breach and the vessel's condition. They emphasized that the ship was stable and not carrying cargo at the time of the attack. The company did not provide further comments regarding the implications of the attack or the potential for future incidents.

The Straits Times

While there has been no formal criticism reported regarding the incident itself, the broader context of maritime security in the Gulf has drawn scrutiny. Analysts and maritime security experts have raised concerns about the increasing frequency of attacks on commercial vessels, which could disrupt shipping routes and escalate military tensions in the region.

The Straits Times

There are discrepancies regarding the nature and extent of the attack. While the Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for hitting a U.S. tanker, the specific details surrounding the Sonangol Namibe's hull breach remain unclear, particularly regarding the identity of the small vessel involved in the incident. Additionally, there is no confirmation of any casualties or injuries among the crew.

UsNews and World Report

• "The small boat approached the port side of the tanker and a short time later a loud bang was heard." — Sonangol Marine Services

The Straits Times

• "The crew reports that a port ballast tank is losing water which suggests some form of hull breach but the ship remains stable and safely afloat." — Sonangol Marine Services

The Straits Times

This incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by commercial shipping in the Gulf region, raising questions about maritime security and the potential for further escalations in conflict.

The Straits Times