Thai Navy warns ships of possible sea mines near Hormuz

2026-03-14 - 10:03

BANGKOK — The Royal Thai Navy has issued an urgent advisory warning Thai shipping operators to exercise caution when navigating waters in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions and the potential threat of sea mines. Rear Adm. Parach Rattanachaiyaphan said on 14 March that the Navy’s Maritime Traffic Control Centre under the Naval Operations Centre issued the security alert on 13 March to warn Thai commercial vessels and shipping companies operating in the region. The advisory follows an assessment indicating a possibility that sea mines could be deployed in the area, posing risks to commercial shipping and one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes. The Navy urged Thai vessels and ship operators to avoid entering high-risk areas unless necessary, conduct risk assessments and strengthen security measures in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and Best Management Practices for maritime security. Ships were also advised to closely monitor developments, maintain radio communication on maritime channel 16 and remain ready to respond to contact from maritime security authorities in the region. Vessels encountering suspicious objects or unusual incidents are urged to immediately report them to the Navy’s maritime traffic control centre, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations and other relevant authorities. The Navy also issued operational guidance on how crews should respond if they encounter sea mines, aiming to reduce risks and enhance safety for Thai vessels passing through the area. The Royal Thai Navy said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary to ensure the safety of Thai ships and crews.