Cyprus-flagged cargo vessel GFS Galaxy attacked in the Strait of Hormuz

The Cyprus-flagged cargo vessel M/V GFS Galaxy was struck by Iranian fire approximately nine nautical miles east of the Musandam Peninsula while navigating the Strait of Hormuz. The Cypriot Deputy Ministry of Shipping confirmed that none of the 11 crew members are Cypriot nationals. According to the Indian Foreign Ministry, 10 Indian crew members have been rescued, while one remains missing. The ship suffered significant damage to its engine room and caught fire, preventing it from continuing its voyage. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the crew evacuated into a life raft before being rescued by local authorities. While Iran claimed the vessel was using an unauthorized route and that it fired a warning shot, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) described the event as an unprovoked attack and subsequently launched retaliatory strikes against Iranian military targets. The incident occurs amid broader military tensions in the region that have led to significant navigational challenges for commercial shipping.