Two container ships have sunk near the Strait of Hormuz following missile strikes, reflecting an intensifying campaign of Iranian attacks on maritime traffic in the region. The Singapore-flagged GFS Pride sank on Wednesday after being targeted the previous day, while the Antigua- and Barbuda-flagged Cape Dao sank shortly thereafter near the strait after being hit by a projectile on 23 September, according to International Maritime Organization data.
Iranian officials attributed the GFS Pride’s sinking to the vessel striking a naval mine while traversing an unauthorized route through the waterway. State media quoted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stating the ship had been traveling on an illegal and dangerous passage when it encountered the mine. However, the UK Maritime Trade Operations suggested both vessels had been struck by unidentified projectiles, contradicting Tehran’s explanation. The GFS Pride was reportedly carrying 2,500 containers at the time of the incident.
The recent attacks represent a marked acceleration in Iranian maritime operations. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported at least five incidents in a 48-hour period, with six vessels attacked on a single day earlier in the week. Analysis indicated 24 ships were hit during the two weeks preceding 11 October, including tankers carrying refined energy products and crude oil. Maritime security sources characterized the tempo as deliberately elevated.
According to Iranian officials, the escalated campaign reflects a coordinated strategy adopted at the highest levels of Iran’s leadership. The approach involves modified tactics and increased frequency of strikes targeting vessels deemed to be violating Iran’s navigational restrictions. Officials stated the objective is to frustrate international and allied efforts to reduce global oil prices. A US military official confirmed that Iran has shifted methods following the degradation of its radar infrastructure, employing unarmed spotters in small vessels to identify targets for the IRGC. One such incident resulted in US forces destroying an Iranian surveillance dhow without casualties.
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