Two Singapore-flagged container vessels were struck by unidentified projectiles while passing through the Strait of Hormuz on October 13 and 14, resulting in one vessel sinking and the other sustaining damage, according to Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA).

The container ship GFS Pride was hit on October 13, suffering damage and a fire onboard that ultimately caused it to sink. All 21 crew members were successfully evacuated, and no injuries have been reported. The following day, the GFS Giselle was struck, causing hull damage. The vessel has since reached a safe anchorage under its own power, with all 22 crew members reported safe.

Neither vessel had any Singaporean crew members onboard at the time of the incidents. Both ships are operated by GFS Ship Management, a Dubai-based company. According to maritime tracking data, GFS Pride had departed Karachi Port, Pakistan, on October 1 and arrived at Al Fujayrah, United Arab Emirates, on October 3, while GFS Giselle left Nhava Sheva port in India on October 1 and was headed to Fujairah, UAE.

The MPA has expressed deep concern over the attacks, describing them as “unprovoked, unjustifiable, and a breach of international law.” The agency emphasized that all actions affecting international shipping must comply with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and must prioritize the safety of vessels and seafarers.

The incidents come amid a recent surge in attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Maritime security sources report that at least 12 attacks on oil, liquefied natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas tankers were recorded in the area from September 28 to October 5—the highest number in a single week since the start of the U.S.-Iran conflict in late February.

The MPA is maintaining communication with the management company and continues to closely monitor developments related to the two damaged ships. Further details, including the cause of the attacks and the condition of the vessels, remain under investigation.