Velos Sapphire hit by missile in Persian Gulf, sailor dead
World
A Greek-owned oil tanker, Velos Sapphire, was hit by a missile in the Persian Gulf early Thursday, leading to the death of one sailor.
The ship, flagged in the Marshall Islands and headed for Bahrain, managed to put out a fire from the strike and continued its journey.
The crew's quick action kept things from getting worse, but sadly, the missing sailor was later found dead.
US escorts tankers through vital waterway
This attack has added to growing tensions in the region.
Iran reported two more tanker fires nearby and claims there have been several attacks on ships since late February, disrupting a waterway that handles about 20% of global oil.
In response, the US is now escorting tankers through this vital route and working to keep it safe from further threats.