On Monday, Iraqi officials reported that a cargo vessel was struck by two explosions in the Gulf, approximately 40 nautical miles southeast of Umm Qasr, Iraq. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that the vessel was hit by a projectile on its starboard side, resulting in a significant explosion. Following the initial blast, a second explosion occurred, identified as a drone attack according to preliminary assessments. An Iraqi maritime patrol member recounted hearing a drone prior to the second explosion, which ignited a fire on the vessel. Fortunately, the fire was subsequently brought under control. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the identity of the vessel involved remains unknown. This incident follows reports of the Islamic regime firing at four ships in the Strait of Hormuz earlier in the week, warning them to return after they allegedly crossed without proper coordination with security forces. The situation raises concerns over maritime security in the region, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions in the Gulf.