Rescue Mission Intensifies After Thai Ship Drifts into Iranian Waters

Rescue Mission Intensifies After Thai Ship Drifts into Iranian Waters

BANGKOK, March 19, 2026 — Thailand’s efforts to rescue crew members from a damaged cargo vessel have become more complicated after the ship drifted into Iranian waters, Thai naval officials said on Thursday.

The vessel, Mayuree Naree, was previously attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz, and has since been left adrift.

Thai navy commander Pairote Fuangchan, quoted by the Bangkok Post, said rescue operations had grown increasingly difficult after the vessel crossed into Iranian territory. Three crew members are believed to remain trapped onboard.

“Operations have become more complex as the ship has drifted into Iranian waters,” he said.

Thailand is continuing to coordinate with the Royal Navy of Oman to monitor the vessel’s movement and assess possible rescue options, officials said.

At the same time, Bangkok has reached out to Iranian authorities to request assistance in locating and rescuing the missing crew.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions and security risks in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route, where recent attacks have raised concerns over maritime safety and energy supply disruptions.

Thai authorities said they would continue to provide updates as efforts to resolve the situation progress.