Drone hits ship in Qatar waters; South Korea confirms strike on its vessel

A drone hit a commercial cargo vessel in Qatari waters on Sunday morning, Qatar's defense ministry announced. The ship was traveling from Abu Dhabi and was struck northeast of Mesaieed Port. A limited fire broke out on board, but no one was injured.

The attack follows threats from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards to target U.S. vessels operating in the region. The United States and Iran have clashed repeatedly in the Gulf in recent days, each blaming the other for escalating tensions.

The U.S. is currently waiting for Iran to respond to a new negotiating proposal. However, Washington and Tehran have not made progress on talks and continue to exchange accusations over events in the waterway.

South Korea reported that one of its own vessels was also attacked in the incident. Officials did not immediately provide details about damage or injuries aboard the South Korean ship.

The strikes underscore the volatile security situation in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes. Attacks on commercial vessels in the region have raised concerns about freedom of navigation and the safety of international trade.