Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy is closely monitoring the situation regarding Tropical Storm Hormuz and emphasizes that Thai vessels should avoid high-risk areas. The Royal Thai Navy is keeping a vigilant eye on the escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, specifically advising Thai vessels to exercise caution and avoid entering these high-risk zones.
According to Thai News Agency, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, stated that the Navy has been consistently monitoring the maritime situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. He emphasized that the ongoing conflict in the region significantly impacts the safety of international commercial shipping.
On August 31, 2026, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an attack on an oil tanker by three unknown weapons as it exited the Strait of Hormuz, approximately 17 nautical miles east of Khasab, Oman. Initial reports indicated no injuries, and relevant authorities are investigating the incident. The type, source, or perpetrator of the attack has yet to be officially confirmed.
This incident underscores the critical risk level to navigation in the area. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recorded at least 70 confirmed attacks on international vessels since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, resulting in 19 fatalities. Numerous ships and crew members have been affected by the ongoing security concerns in the area.
The Royal Thai Navy perceives this as an ongoing threat to maritime safety, especially in the strategic and globally significant Strait of Hormuz. The situation could affect ship and crew safety, maritime transport, supply chains, and global energy prices. Consequently, the Royal Thai Navy advises all Thai vessels, including those with Thai crews or interests, to avoid the risky area. Should navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings be necessary, heightened caution is recommended, along with continuous monitoring of maritime safety announcements and warnings from relevant agencies. Emergency response measures should be in place at all times, and the Royal Thai Navy must be notified in advance to facilitate coordinated assistance.
The Royal Thai Navy will continue to monitor developments closely, focusing on incidents affecting navigation freedom and safety, as well as potential impacts on vessels, crew members, and Thailand's maritime interests, to coordinate with relevant agencies and take appropriate actions.