Two explosions hit an MSC container vessel in the Gulf about 40 nautical miles southeast of Iraq\u2019s Umm Qasr port on 1 June.<\/p>\n
UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) initially reported the ship had been struck on its starboard side by a projectile, causing a large explosion. A fire broke out on board but was later brought under control. According to Reuters, witness accounts from an Iraqi maritime patrol member said a drone was heard overhead shortly before a second, more powerful blast that also ignited a fire on the tanker.<\/p>\n
UKMTO WARNING 063-26 UPDATE 001<\/p>\n
Click here to view the full warning\u2935\ufe0fhttps:\/\/t.co\/HjNWQf1FPT<\/a>#MaritimeSecurity<\/a> #MarSec<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/2gPlZLNAux<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 UKMTO Operations Centre (@UK_MTO) June 1, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n The vessel was subsequently secured, and no crew members were reported injured.<\/p>\n The ship\u2019s operator, MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), later confirmed its vessel MSC Sariska V had been hit by two projectiles while departing Umm Qasr. MSC said all crew were safe and described the attacks as unprovoked.<\/p>\n MSC statement on MSC Sariska V<\/p>\n Yesterday, MSC Sariska V was struck by two projectiles while departing the port of Um-Qasr, Iraq.<\/p>\n We are relieved to confirm that all crew members are safe and unharmed. We would also like to thank them for their professionalism and composure\u2026<\/p>\n