BAGHDAD, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- A Panamanian-flagged fuel oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile early Wednesday in Iraqi territorial waters, causing material damage to its hull but no crew casualties or fuel spills, Iraq's Transportation Ministry said in a statement.
The incident occurred at 5:30 a.m. local time (0230 GMT), when the tanker "was struck by an unknown source" while within Iraqi territorial waters, it said.
Relevant security, official and maritime authorities immediately took precautionary measures, it said, adding the surrounding area was inspected on-site to ensure no fuel leaks, further damage, or other risks.
An investigation has been launched to determine the source of the attack, the ministry said.
The incident came amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing security risks affecting global shipping and energy transport across the Gulf and surrounding waterways. ■
