The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for a strike on the MSC Sariska V, a Panama-flagged vessel, near Umm Qasr, Iraq, following a powerful explosion. The IRGC described the incident as a retaliatory action against what it termed a US-owned ship, asserting that a cruise missile was used in the operation. However, preliminary investigations by local authorities suggest that the explosion may have resulted from an internal mechanical failure rather than an external attack. The incident occurred around 40 nautical miles southeast of Umm Qasr, causing damage to the ship's starboard side but leaving all crew members safe and the vessel capable of continuing its voyage. The UK Maritime Trade Operations confirmed there were no signs of environmental damage and that investigations are ongoing. The situation remains unclear as conflicting narratives emerge between the IRGC's claims and the findings from investigators, who are looking into the precise cause of the explosion.