A drone assault at Oman’s Salalah port triggered a significant fire at oil storage facilities on Wednesday, prompting Maersk to suspend port activities indefinitely. The incident raises concerns over regional supply chain security as no injuries were reported and merchant vessels remained unharmed.
The attack involved multiple drones targeting fuel tanks at the port, according to Omani officials and the security consultancy Ambrey. Security forces intercepted and neutralized several drones; however, at least one drone penetrated the defenses, striking the oil storage area and setting it ablaze. Online videos have captured extensive fire engulfing the affected facilities.
Authorities confirmed the absence of casualties and reported that no commercial shipping vessels sustained damage during the incident. Nevertheless, Maersk responded by announcing a halt to all port operations, citing safety concerns and the proximity of the assault to the general cargo terminal.
Ambrey characterized the strike as part of a series of attacks attributed to Iran, which has increasingly targeted energy infrastructure across the Gulf region. These actions are viewed as retaliatory measures following repeated attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel.
