IMO pauses Strait of Hormuz ship evacuation after suspected attack

The UN International Maritime Organization paused its voluntary ship evacuation program in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday after a cargo vessel reported a suspected attack near Oman. According to maritime authorities and Reuters, the ship said it was struck by a projectile as it passed through the area. The incident renewed concerns about shipping safety in one of the world’s most important energy routes, and the organization said it was temporarily suspending the effort until it could confirm safety guarantees for vessels on its evacuation list. The reported attack came as tensions remained high over a fragile U.S.backed deal tied to the Iran war and the reopening of the strait. The Strait of Hormuz handles a large share of global oil and liquefied natural gas traffic, so any disruption can affect energy markets and shipping routes. Benchmark oil prices rose after the incident, while Iranian officials said vessels must follow routes approved by Tehran.