Fire Erupts On U.S.-Flagged MT Stena Imperative After Suspected Iranian Strike In Bahrain, One Killed

A U.S.-flagged oil tanker docked in Bahrain was struck by suspected Iranian projectiles early Monday, killing one shipyard worker and injuring two others.

The vessel, MT Stena Imperative, caught fire after sustaining aerial impact damage while undergoing maintenance at Khalifa bin Salman Port.

According to Crowley, the Florida-based company managing the tanker, the attack occurred shortly after 2 a.m. local time.

The vessel was in dry dock for planned maintenance and regulatory inspections. It was not carrying fuel cargo at the time.

The impact caused a fire onboard, which was later extinguished. A damage assessment is currently underway.

One shipyard worker was killed in the strike. Two others sustained injuries. No crew members aboard the tanker were harmed.

Crowley stated that the safety of personnel and vessels remains the top priority and confirmed support measures are being provided.

MT Stena Imperative is enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Tanker Security Program (TSP) as of January 2025.

The program maintains a fleet of about 10 U.S.-based commercial product tankers that can support the Department of Defense during national emergencies or military conflicts.

Although the vessel was previously chartered by the U.S. Military Sealift Command, it is not currently under contract. Company officials confirmed the tanker was in Bahrain solely for maintenance and inspections.

The same tanker was previously intercepted in early February by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian gunboats reportedly ordered the vessel to stop and prepare for boarding. The tanker increased speed and continued its voyage under escort by USS McFaul (DDG-74).

References: USNI, NY Times

Source: Maritime Shipping News