Muscat: The Attack on the Israeli Ship Occurred Outside Our Territorial Waters

The Sultanate of Oman confirmed that the attack on the Israeli ship "Mercer Street" indeed took place outside Omani territorial waters, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring safe passage in its waters. The Omani News Agency reported that the Royal Navy of Oman deployed a vessel to the attack site, and field results confirmed that the incident occurred outside Omani territorial waters. Communication with the ship's owners and crew indicated that the ship would continue its voyage without the need for assistance. The Sultanate reaffirmed its continuous efforts and the mobilization of all resources to maintain the safety and security of navigation in Omani territorial waters, as well as the capability of all concerned authorities in the Sultanate to ensure maritime safety. An Israeli official held Iran responsible for the attack on the oil tanker "Mercer Street," which resulted in the deaths of two crew members, a Romanian and a British, noting that the attack may have been carried out by a drone. Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid vowed yesterday to respond with "harsh retaliation" to the attack, stating in a statement that "Iran is not only Israel's problem but a source of terrorism, destruction, and instability that harms everyone."