UAE Condemns Drone Strikes on Two ADNOC Tankers in Strait of Hormuz

## UAE Condemns Drone Strikes on Two ADNOC Tankers in Strait of Hormuz The United Arab Emirates has formally condemned a drone attack on two tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, in an incident that underscores the persistent security risks facing commercial shipping in one of the world's most strategically critical waterways. According to Seatrade Maritime, the vessels — operated by ADNOC Logistics & Services (ADNOC L&S) and Navig8 — were struck by uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) during outbound transits of the strait. The UAE government issued a swift condemnation of the attack, though full details regarding casualties, cargo status, and the extent of damage to the vessels had not been fully disclosed at the time of reporting. ### A Critical Chokepoint Under Threat The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most vital maritime chokepoints in the global energy supply chain, with an estimated 20% of the world's traded oil passing through its narrow passage. Any disruption to shipping in the waterway carries significant implications for global energy markets and tanker insurance rates. The involvement of ADNOC L&S — the logistics arm of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company — gives the incident particular geopolitical weight, representing a direct strike on state-linked energy infrastructure. Navig8, a major international tanker pool operator, is also a prominent name in the global crude and product tanker markets. ### Escalating UAV Threat to Tankers The attack is the latest in a series of UAV and missile incidents targeting commercial shipping in the broader Gulf region in recent years. Maritime security analysts have repeatedly warned that the proliferation of low-cost drone technology has lowered the threshold for attacks on commercial vessels, making traditional naval deterrence more complex. Shipping operators and insurers are likely to reassess risk premiums for Hormuz transits in the wake of the incident. War risk insurance for vessels operating in the region has already been elevated in recent years following a series of attacks attributed to various regional actors. The UAE has not publicly attributed responsibility for the strike. Regional and international maritime security bodies, including the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), are expected to issue navigational advisories to vessels operating in the area. Industry stakeholders are urged to monitor official guidance from UKMTO and relevant flag state authorities before scheduling transits through the strait.