Full Breakdown
Saudi VLCC Sidr Hit in Strait of Hormuz, Two Filipino Crew Killed
9/2/2026, 12:25:39 PM
Attack on the Sidr
Saudi Arabian Shipping Company (Bahri) reported that its very large crude carrier Sidr was struck while crossing the Strait of Hormuz at 11:40 p.m. on Monday. The incident, which occurred on August 31, resulted in the deaths of two Filipino crew members. Bahri said it remains in continuous contact with the vessel and is coordinating with relevant authorities and maritime-industry stakeholders while monitoring developments.
Background and Regional Shipping Risks
According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the regional conflict began on February 28, after which thousands of seafarers have been stranded in the Gulf. By August 28, the IMO had verified at least 70 attacks on ships and recorded 19 seafarer deaths. The war has forced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz for many vessels; crossing numbers fell to five ships on Tuesday, down from 23 the previous Wednesday. In addition, the Tehran-backed Houthi movement declared a maritime blockade of Saudi ports in late July, and a Saudi-owned tanker, Encelia, was attacked in the Red Sea on July 23, though its crew survived.
Company and International Response
Bahri emphasized its commitment to the highest standards of safety, security and environmental protection. The company also noted that its entire fleet remained operational throughout the second quarter, despite the conflict.
Data on Shipping Disruptions
- The IMO reported 70 verified ship attacks and 19 seafarer fatalities as of August 28.
- Vessel crossings dropped sharply, with five vessels crossing on Tuesday versus 23 the prior Wednesday.
- Bahri operates a fleet of 109 vessels (107 owned) and reported a 156 % year-on-year revenue increase to 6.31 billion riyals ($1.68 billion) in Q2, driven by higher freight rates and increased chartering activity.
Broader Implications
The attack underscores the vulnerability of global oil logistics; the Strait of Hormuz historically handled about one-fifth of worldwide oil exports. Disruptions have prompted Saudi Arabia to rely more heavily on the Bab Al-Mandeb route to the Red Sea and to explore alternative export pathways, including potential expansions of the East-West pipeline. The ongoing maritime threats continue to affect supply chains for fuels, fertilizers and other commodities, with ripple effects on global markets.
