A UAE-flagged tugboat sank in the Strait of Hormuz after being hit by missiles, leaving crew members missing and escalating maritime tensions in the Gulf. The incident occurred amid Iran’s retaliatory strikes against regional assets supporting US and Israeli operations.

Reports indicate the vessel was assisting a container ship when struck, highlighting the vulnerability of global shipping lanes. UAE air defenses have intercepted additional Iranian missiles and drones targeting Abu Dhabi, but debris has caused further incidents.

The attack underscores Iran’s strategy to disrupt Gulf states, prompting condemnations from the Arab League and warnings of broader economic fallout. Casualties remain unconfirmed as search operations continue.