The UAE Ministry of Defense revealed that the national tankers 'Mombasa' and 'Al Bahia' were attacked by two Iranian cruise missiles in the southern part of the Strait of Hormuz, within Omani territorial waters.

This development comes at a time when the Gulf region is witnessing increased tensions against the backdrop of Iranian activities in vital waterways.

The attack resulted in the death of an Indian sailor from the crew of the tanker 'Mombasa', and the injury of eight others, including four in serious condition, among them six Indians and two Ukrainians.

The attack also caused material damage to the two tankers due to fires that broke out, but the fires were fully brought under control.

The ministry condemned the attack, considering it a flagrant violation of international law that threatens the stability of the region, and affirmed that the UAE reserves the right to full response and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens, and residents.

The ministry stressed that it is on full alert to deal with any threats, and that it is proceeding to take all measures necessary to counter anything aimed at undermining the state's security and stability.

The ministry called on the public to obtain information from official sources and to avoid spreading rumors and unreliable information.

The attack raises questions about the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a third of the world's oil passes. It may also lead to diplomatic and military escalation between the UAE and Iran, amid the absence of an official reaction from Tehran so far. Major powers are closely monitoring the situation, amid fears of tensions spreading to other shipping routes.