Three cargo vessels hit by projectiles in Strait of Hormuz

At least three vessels were hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, with a Thailand-flagged bulk carrier catching fire off the coast of Oman, according to maritime security agencies.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said most crew were evacuated, as the fire was extinguished.Essential crew remained on board.

The Thai Navy said in a statement the bulk carrier "Mayuree Naree" was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz.

"Efforts are currently underway to rescue the remaining three crew members," while 20 were rescued by the Omani navy, it said, adding that the cause of the attack was under investigation.

A Japan-flagged container ship also sustained minor damage from an unknown projectile off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. Security sources told Reuters news agency the crew was uninjured, and the vessels is heading towards a safe anchorage. Another Marshall-islands flagged bulk carrier was also hit by an unknown projectile, and slightly damaged.