A liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker off the Libyan coast caught fire after being targeted by unknown maritime drones, according to maritime and security sources cited by Reuters, raising fresh concerns about maritime security and energy transport in the Mediterranean.
The Russian LNG tanker Arctic Metagas, which is reportedly under international sanctions, was struck while sailing near Libyan waters. Initial reports indicate that the vessel came under attack by unidentified sea drones, causing a fire on board.
Fate of Crew Remains Unknown
According to the sources, the extent of the damage to the tanker and the fate of its crew remain unclear. No official statements have yet confirmed casualties, the condition of the vessel, or whether rescue operations have been launched.
Authorities have not identified the party responsible for the attack, and investigations are expected to determine the origin of the drones and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Rising Security Concerns in the Mediterranean
The attack comes amid growing regional tensions involving the use of drones in maritime operations across the Mediterranean Sea. In recent years, unmanned aerial and maritime systems have increasingly been used in conflicts and security incidents affecting commercial shipping routes.
Security experts warn that such incidents could pose risks to international maritime navigation and global energy supply chains, particularly in areas close to major oil and gas shipping routes.
Implications for Energy and Maritime Safety
The Mediterranean remains a strategic corridor for energy shipments linking Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, making any attacks on energy vessels a serious concern for global markets.
The reported strike on the Arctic Metagas LNG tanker near Libya’s coast could prompt increased monitoring of shipping lanes and calls for stronger maritime security measures to protect vessels carrying vital energy supplies.