Iran's missile attack on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz on September 14, 2023, resulted in the injury of eight United States Marines. This incident, which had not been publicly reported before, has significant implications for the security situation in this sensitive region.
Details of the Attack and Injuries
In this attack, seven Marines and one officer were injured. Reports indicate that these individuals were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation and potential brain injuries from concussion symptoms. Fortunately, none of them were severely injured and quickly returned to their duties. These Marines were part of a marine landing team capable of conducting amphibious and maritime operations.
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Lack of Transparency and Security Situation
The attacked ship was a commercial vessel and was not identified as a United States Navy ship. Meanwhile, the Pentagon did not publicly report this incident at the time of the attack. Following this attack, the number of injured American forces during the war with Iran has risen to 861. According to released information, in addition to the injured Marines, 29 Navy sailors have also been added to this list this week.
The Strait of Hormuz is recognized as one of the most dangerous areas for commercial and military shipping in the world. Additionally, Iranian state media claimed that its forces targeted or stopped 19 ships over the past two nights. These claims have not been confirmed, and no further information has been provided regarding the mentioned ships and their cargoes.
Consequences of the Attacks and the Situation in the Strait of Hormuz
The September 14 attack is another indication of the ongoing dangers for ships in the Strait of Hormuz, even as U.S. monitored shipping traffic has increased. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has rejected claims by the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps regarding Iran's complete control over this strait, stating that thousands of ships and over 1 billion barrels of oil have passed through this waterway in recent months.
Meanwhile, two oil tankers linked to Iran that were seized by U.S. naval forces at the beginning of the war are set to arrive in the United States soon, where officials have announced plans to confiscate these ships and their oil cargoes. Additionally, a coalition led by Bahrain and supported by 80 countries has called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring the safe passage of commercial ships without tariffs and special conditions.
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