A Thai-flagged bulk carrier was attacked on Wednesday while navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz, prompting a high-seas rescue operation that has successfully recovered 20 crew members, according to the Royal Thai Navy.

The vessel, identified as the Mayuree Naree, was transiting the world’s most critical energy corridor after departing Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates when the assault occurred. Images released by Thai naval authorities depicted the 178-meter ship engulfed in thick plumes of black smoke rising from its hull and superstructure, with orange life rafts deployed in the surrounding waters.

"The specific details and cause of the attack are currently under investigation," the Royal Thai Navy stated in a formal release.

The Omani Navy spearheaded the initial emergency response, pulling 20 sailors from the sea. Thai officials confirmed that "efforts are currently underway to rescue the remaining three crew members" who remain missing.

Escalating Maritime Conflict

The incident follows a series of Iranian strikes against neighbouring oil-exporting states, a campaign that has crippled maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and triggered a global energy crisis. While the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre reported that three commercial vessels were struck in the Gulf on Wednesday, it was not immediately confirmed if the Mayuree Naree was among those previously identified.

Maritime tracking data showed the 30,000-tonne carrier drifting off the coast of Oman, moving at a negligible speed of roughly one knot. The vessel, owned by the Bangkok-based firm Precious Shipping, was destined for the port of Kandla in India.

Economic and Security Impact

As the conflict between Western-aligned forces and the Islamic Republic enters its second week, the targeting of neutral commercial shipping has sent insurance premiums soaring and forced many transport firms to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.

Representatives for Precious Shipping did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the status of the remaining crew or the extent of the damage to the cargo.

With inputs from AFP