A Singapore-flagged container ship named Ever Lovely was struck by an unknown projectile 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Dahit, Oman in the Strait of Hormuz on June 25, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The projectile hit the ship's starboard side, damaging the bridge [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the ship's master reported no casualties or environmental impact from the attack [2].
The vessel continued through the Strait after the incident and exited on the east side later the same day [1]. A maritime security source suggested a drone may have delivered the strike, though the attacker’s identity remains unclear [5]. This event marks a second recent similar attack in the Strait, with another vessel hit by an unknown projectile off Oman on June 12, 2026 [2, 3, 4].
Iran has asserted it will charge fees for transit through the Strait of Hormuz and demands vessels obtain Tehran’s permission to pass [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said, “The only authorised route through the waterway was the one announced by Iran,” [3]. The US opposes such charges. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, “No country is allowed to impose tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, which is an international waterway.” [1]
Oman announced a new temporary shipping route close to its coast through the Strait but stated it does not intend to impose transit fees on vessels using it [2, 3, 4]. Oman’s foreign minister said, “Our plans do not entail the imposition of any transit fees.” [3]
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) paused its evacuation plan for more than 11,000 sailors stranded in the Strait following the attack on Ever Lovely, citing safety concerns and the need for further clarity. UN IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez said, “To ensure a coordinated approach and navigational safety, the evacuation plan will be paused until further clarity is obtained.” [1]
Since February, hundreds of vessels have become stranded in the Strait due to rising US-Iran hostilities [1, 5]. The attacks and tension over control of the strategic waterway have disrupted maritime traffic vital for global trade.
UKMTO reported the incident at 1410 GMT on June 25, 2026 [6]. Authorities continue to investigate the projectile's origin and monitor the evolving situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
