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Three Crew Missing After Tug Sinks Amid Vessel Attacks

3/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Three Indonesian crew members remain missing after the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2 sank on March 6.
The tug sank after an explosion and was struck by two missiles while assisting the Malta-flagged container ship Safeen Prestige.
The incident follows vessel attacks since the US-Israeli war on Iran began February 28.
One survivor is hospitalized in Khasab, Oman, and another is safe on a different vessel.
An investigation is ongoing.

History

Historical Context

The US-Israeli conflict with Iran escalated on February 28, 2026, marking a significant intensification of hostilities that began with the Twelve-Day War in June 2025. Israel's targeted strikes aimed at Iranian military leaders and nuclear facilities have led to retaliatory missile attacks from Iran, impacting maritime safety and international shipping routes, as seen in the sinking of the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2.

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Story summary

Three Indonesian crew members remain missing after the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2 sank on March 6.
The tug sank after an explosion and was struck by two missiles while assisting the Malta-flagged container ship Safeen Prestige.
The incident follows vessel attacks since the US-Israeli war on Iran began February 28.
One survivor is hospitalized in Khasab, Oman, and another is safe on a different vessel.
An investigation is ongoing.

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