Government: HMM Namoo Fire Caused by Strike from Unknown Aircraft

An investigation has determined that the fire on the South Korean vessel HMM Namoo, which occurred in the Hormuz Strait on May 4, was caused by a strike from an unidentified aircraft. However, it remains unclear whether the aircraft was a drone or a missile, or which country may be responsible.

According to a report by Yonhap News on May 10, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the findings of a joint government investigation. The ministry stated, "The investigation confirmed that on May 4, an unidentified aircraft struck the stern of the HMM Namoo," adding that there are limitations in identifying the exact type and physical size of the aircraft. They also noted that further analysis of debris collected from the site is planned.

On May 4, while docked in the Hormuz Strait, the HMM Namoo experienced an explosion followed by a fire. There were no casualties reported, but the vessel was rendered incapable of sailing under its own power.

Following the incident, the government towed the HMM Namoo to Dubai. A team of three investigators from the Marine Safety Tribunal and four forensic experts from the Fire Agency were dispatched to the site to begin the investigation into the cause of the fire.

This announcement confirms that the fire was not simply an accident but resulted from an external aircraft strike. However, the identity of the attacker and the type of weapon used remain undetermined.

The Iranian embassy in South Korea previously denied any involvement of the Iranian military in the incident, rejecting claims of an "Iranian attack." In contrast, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted shortly after the fire that it was an attack by Iran and called for South Korea to participate in U.S. military operations to free vessels trapped in the Hormuz Strait.