A significant incident unfolded in the Indian Ocean as an Iranian attack drone targeted a chemical tanker on Saturday, according to a U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson. This marks the seventh Iranian assault on commercial vessels since 2021.
The vessel in question, named CHEM PLUTO, flies the Liberia flag and is owned by Japan, with operations managed by the Netherlands. The strike occurred around 10 a.m. local time, approximately 200 nautical miles off the Indian coastline. The attack drone, launched from Iran, successfully hit the tanker, emphasizing its one-way design meant for direct impact.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported from the attack, and the fire onboard the CHEM PLUTO was swiftly contained. The U.S. Navy clarified that none of its vessels were nearby during the incident. However, Naval Forces Central Command has been in touch with the affected tanker.
Sources from India’s coast guard confirmed the presence of 20 Indian crew members and one Vietnamese individual onboard during the assault. They promptly dispatched a patrol vessel and surveillance aircraft after establishing communication with the tanker. Following necessary repairs, the CHEM PLUTO, escorted by the patrol vessel, set its course for Mumbai. The vessel’s initial route began from Saudi Arabia on December 19, with a scheduled arrival in Mangalore, India, by December 25.
This development comes amidst heightened maritime tensions. Reports indicate Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have executed over 100 attacks on numerous commercial ships navigating the Red Sea in recent weeks. U.S. Central Command echoed concerns, noting recent drone strikes and missile firings in the region. Notably, the U.S. shared declassified intelligence suggesting Iran’s significant role in orchestrating these maritime disruptions. National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson revealed details of Iran’s alleged involvement, emphasizing its support for Houthi operations against maritime and Israeli targets.
In response, the U.S. initiated “Operation Prosperity Guardian,” rallying a maritime coalition to bolster security in the southern Red Sea. The Pentagon confirmed over 20 nations have pledged support to this initiative, underscoring international efforts to address escalating tensions.
