How it unfolded
On March 11, 2023, a significant maritime incident occurred in the Middle East Gulf when a sea drone struck the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker Safesea Vishnu near Basrah. At the time of the attack, both the Safesea Vishnu and the Malta-flagged Zefyros were engaged in the transfer of a cargo of 48,000 tonnes of naphtha. The strike resulted in a catastrophic fire that engulfed both ships and the surrounding sea.
The immediate aftermath of the attack was tragic, with one Indian seafarer confirmed killed. Fortunately, 25 crew members from the Safesea Vishnu were rescued from the sea, while all 23 crew members of the Zefyros were reported safe and accounted for. A widely circulated video captured the moment the Safesea Vishnu was hit, highlighting the severity of the incident.
In the wake of the attack, salvage contractor Tsavliris was awarded a Lloyd’s Open Form salvage contract for the Safesea Vishnu. The condition of the vessel is currently being assessed, according to a spokesman from Benetech, the company involved in the operation. The attack has raised alarms regarding the safety of vessels engaged in ship-to-ship (STS) operations in the region.
Expert Alexander Glykas commented on the vulnerability of ships involved in STS operations, stating that they are currently at a standstill and exposed to potential threats. He referenced previous incidents of terrorist targeting of ships during STS operations in West Africa, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection for maritime operations in the Middle East Gulf.
As the situation develops, the need for further STS transfers in the region is likely to be very limited until transiting the Strait of Hormuz becomes viable again. The attack underscores the ongoing security concerns that have long plagued maritime operations in this critical area.
With the maritime community on high alert, the implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate damage and loss of life. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with STS operations, particularly in volatile regions. The maritime industry may need to reassess its protocols and security measures to ensure the safety of vessels and crew members in the future.
As investigations continue, details remain unconfirmed regarding the broader implications of this attack on maritime trade and security in the Middle East. The international community will be closely monitoring developments as they unfold.
