Attack reported off the coast of Fujairah, #UAE, according to United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations. Unclear which vessel or background as of yet.
Being reported as a non-piracy incident
The Maersk Messina (Singapore flag), Asphalt Princess (Panama flag), and an unnamed tanker are in the area of the coordinates published.
The Front Crown and Golden Brilliant, both located nearby are listed as "Not Under Command."
The Front Crown and Golden Brilliant, both located nearby are listed as "Not Under Command."
A patrol aircraft belonging to the Royal Air Force of #Oman is flying in the area.
A US Air Force refueling aircraft is also flying in the area.
Queen Ematha (Guyana), Rajtilak (Cook Islands), Jag Pooja (India), Global Rani (Cook Islands) now also "Not Under Command".
Jupiter patrol vessel (Mongolia) listed as "restricted manoeuvrability."
Front Crown is underway again.
The @UK_MTO has stated that they're not ruling out a possible kidnapping, but that they're still investigating the incident.
Sky News reporting that 8 or 9 armed people boarded the Asphalt princess of the coast of the #UAE in suspected kidnapping
If it was #Iran they could be trying to use hostages as a playing card amid threats from the US #Israel and the UK
In the meantime, #Iran media is broadcasting unified message that it's only interested in maritime safety and security and that the reported hijack is an attempt by #Israel, UK and US to "instill insecurity" and prepare the ground for "new adventures."
.@UK_MTO reports that the hijackers have left the vessel and that the incident has ended. Someone got cold feet it seems.
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