Japan expresses concern over Strait of Hormuz safety after damage to Japanese ships

“As we pay serious attention to the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and actively gather information, we are deeply concerned about the development involving damage to the ships,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told reporters.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines confirmed Thursday that the stern of a Japanese-flagged container ship, One Majesty, was damaged Wednesday while anchored in the Persian Gulf, though all crew members were safe and the ship had no fire, flooding or oil leak.

Another Mitsui-operated oil tanker had minor damage from unidentified falling objects last week while in the Gulf of Oman. Mitsui said both incidents are being investigated. — AP