Iran-US Tensions Spill Into Egypt: Drone Hits US LNG Tanker at Damietta Port, Massive Blaze Erupts

New Delhi: The escalating Iran-US conflict has taken a dramatic turn, with its impact now reaching Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. A suspected drone attack targeted a US-linked LNG vessel at Egypt’s strategically important Damietta Port on Wednesday, triggering a massive explosion and fire that spread to nearby ships, raising fresh concerns over the security of global energy infrastructure.

According to British maritime security firm Ambrey, the drone struck the floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) Energos Winter, causing a powerful blast. The flames quickly engulfed a nearby LNG carrier, GasLog Salem, and a tugboat. Emergency teams managed to extinguish the fire after an extensive operation, while all crew members were evacuated safely. No casualties have been reported.

Trump Warns of ‘Very Powerful’ Strike on Iran

Amid the escalating tensions, US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran, saying America was prepared to launch a “very powerful attack.” Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said, “They know it’s coming,” while also indicating that diplomatic negotiations with Tehran were still possible.

Trump also called for including Iran in the proposed sanctions package targeting Russia, arguing that tariffs on Iran would make the legislation “much stronger.”

Egypt Confirms Fire, Avoids Mention of Drone Attack

Egypt’s Petroleum Minister Karim Badawi visited Damietta Port to review the situation. While the Ministry of Petroleum confirmed that the fire had been brought under control, it did not officially acknowledge reports of a drone strike. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but the incident has heightened concerns in international energy markets.

Why Energos Winter Matters

The targeted Energos Winter is a critical Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) capable of storing around 138,250 cubic metres of LNG and converting it back into natural gas for pipeline distribution or export. The vessel is owned by US-based Energos Infrastructure and operated by Wilhelmsen Ship Management.

Conflict Expands Beyond the Gulf

The attack comes amid a sharp escalation in the Middle East. Earlier, the US and Saudi Arabia reportedly carried out joint strikes on Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) positions in Iraq. Iran, in turn, claimed missile attacks on US military bases in Jordan and vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, while rejecting Oman’s proposal for joint administration of the strategic waterway.

The latest developments indicate that the Iran-US confrontation is expanding beyond the Persian Gulf, with vital energy corridors in the Mediterranean now also coming under threat.