Pattaya, Thailand – March 11th, 2026
In an escalation of tensions in the Middle East, a Thai-registered cargo ship was struck by an unidentified projectile while attempting to navigate the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in a fire onboard and the evacuation of its crew. The incident, which occurred earlier today, has been linked say regional analysts to ongoing threats from Iran to restrict passage through this critical waterway, according to reports from multiple Thai media outlets.
The vessel, identified as the “Mayruree Naree,” a 19,891 gross ton dry cargo ship owned by Precious Shipping Public Company Limited (PSL), was en route from a port in the United Arab Emirates when it was hit at approximately 11:00 a.m. Thai time. The attack caused an explosion at the stern, igniting a fire in the engine room and forcing the 23 crew members, mostly Thai nationals, to abandon ship. Initial reports from the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) described the projectile as an “unknown object,” but the timing aligns with Iran’s repeated warnings to “burn any ship” trying to pass through the strait amid the broader regional conflict.
Thai authorities swiftly responded to the crisis. The Marine Department, under Director-General Kritphet Chaichuay, confirmed that 20 crew members were rescued and safely brought ashore in Oman, with efforts ongoing to locate and assist the remaining three, who were later reported to be onboard but safe. The Royal Thai Navy, through its spokesperson Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachai, coordinated international aid via the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the Thai Embassy in Muscat to ensure the crew’s safety. No fatalities have been reported, though the ship sustained significant damage, rendering it uncontrollable.
This attack is part of a series of incidents in the region today, with UKMTO noting three commercial vessels targeted within hours in the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Gulf. The assaults come following heightened hostilities that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Iranian officials have not directly claimed responsibility for the strike on the Thai ship, but state media and military statements have explained Tehran’s intent to enforce a de facto blockade. Iranian authorities have threatened to close the strait, a vital chokepoint for global oil and goods transport, and respond aggressively to any vessels defying the restrictions.
The Strait of Hormuz, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments. Its closure or disruption could spike global energy prices and disrupt supply chains, with Thai economists warning of potential impacts on the kingdom’s GDP growth if the conflict prolongs. Shipping giants like Maersk have already highlighted risks, estimating a 15-20% rise in freight costs due to the threats.
Precious Shipping, the Bangkok-based owner of the Mayruree Naree, issued a statement confirming the incident and prioritizing crew welfare. The company is working with insurers and authorities to assess the damage and investigate the attack’s origins.
As investigations continue, the Thai government has urged calm and is monitoring the situation closely. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa stated that Thailand remains neutral in the Middle East conflict but will protect its nationals and interests abroad.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
