A drone struck a U.S.-owned gas storage tanker at Egypt’s Mediterranean port of Damietta on Wednesday, sparking a fire that spread to a second vessel, according to maritime security sources. The attack, assessed by British firm Ambrey, marks a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, with U.S. President Donald Trump vowing retaliation against Iran for an overnight assault.
The drone hit the tanker as it was anchored at the port, causing a blaze that quickly engulfed the vessel and extended to an adjacent ship, three trading sources familiar with the incident told news agencies. The extent of damage and any casualties were not immediately reported.
The strike comes amid heightened tensions in the region, as the conflict between Israel and Iran-backed groups expands beyond traditional fronts. Trump’s pledge to retaliate against Iran suggests the U.S. views Tehran as responsible, though no formal claim of responsibility has been made. The incident underscores the vulnerability of maritime infrastructure in key shipping lanes, with the Suez Canal and nearby ports already under strain from regional instability.
Ambrey, a British maritime security firm, provided an initial assessment of the attack, while local authorities in Egypt have not yet commented. The port of Damietta, a critical hub for gas exports, has seen increased security measures in recent months. The attack is the latest in a series of drone strikes targeting vessels linked to Western interests in the region.