Drones strike Duqm port, oil tanker near Khasab

2026-03-01 - 17:27

Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman has strongly condemned two separate drone attacks targeting Port of Duqm and an oil tanker off the coast of Khasab, describing the incidents as acts of aggression amid heightened regional tensions. According to a security source, two unmanned aerial vehicles targeted the Port at Duqm. One drone struck a mobile housing unit for workers, injuring an expatriate employee. The second drone was intercepted and neutralised, with debris falling near fuel storage tanks. No other casualties or infrastructure damage were reported. In an official statement, Omani authorities denounced the attack and affirmed that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard the country, its residents and vital facilities. Separately, the Maritime Security Centre (MSC) reported that the oil tanker Skylight, flying the flag of the Republic of Palau, was targeted approximately five nautical miles north of the Port of Khasab in Musandam. All 20 crew members were safely evacuated. The crew comprised 15 Indian and five Iranian nationals. Preliminary reports indicate that four crew members sustained injuries of varying severity and were transferred for medical treatment. Meanwhile, the Sultan’s Armed Forces issued a formal advisory urging citizens and residents to exercise heightened vigilance in light of current developments. In a statement released on Sunday, military authorities called on the public to uphold their national responsibility by exercising caution in communications and online activity. The advisory stressed on refraining from photographing or filming military installations, security equipment and other sensitive sites, as well as avoiding sharing such material on digital platforms. Authorities also warned against the circulation of rumours and unverified information on social media, underscoring the importance of relying exclusively on official government sources for accurate updates. The statement reaffirmed that public cooperation remains essential to safeguarding national security and preserving stability. In a related development, the US Embassy in Muscat advised American nationals to remain in secure locations, such as private residences or reinforced buildings, and to maintain adequate supplies of food, water and essential medications. The advisory also urged US citizens to keep mobile devices charged, remain in contact with family members and monitor official channels for further developments as the situation evolves. Qatar, Saudi, Kuwait, GCC denounce Oman attack Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the attack targeting the Port of Duqm, describing it as an unacceptable escalation. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the strike undermines efforts led by Oman to mediate between Iran and the international community to defuse tensions and promote constructive dialogue. The Qatari Ministry affirmed Doha’s full solidarity with Oman in all measures it takes to safeguard its security and stability. Saudi Arabia also expressed its full support for the sultanate, reiterating its solidarity in the face of the attack. Jassim Mohammed al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, also condemned Iran’s attack on the Port of Duqm and the oil tanker Skylight as “serious violation and dangerous escalation that threatens regional security”. He described these actions as “unacceptable provocations” that “undermine stability” in the Gulf and stressed the need for restraint and respect for international law.