Muscat – The Maritime Security Centre (MSC) issued a warning on Saturday after a floating object suspected to be a naval mine was sighted within Omani territorial waters in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically significant shipping corridors.

In a statement, the MSC said the object was detected west of the ‘inshore traffic zone’ and called on all maritime users, including commercial vessels, fishing boats and recreational craft, to exercise the highest level of caution while operating in the area.

The centre advised seafarers to remain vigilant and avoid approaching any unidentified floating objects until further notice.

‘All maritime users are advised to keep a safe distance from any suspicious objects and report them immediately to the relevant authorities,’ the MSC said.

The warning comes as a deadlock over the control of Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route linking Gulf producers with international markets, continues between Iran and the US. Authorities did not immediately provide further details regarding the nature of the object or ongoing efforts to verify and secure it.

The MSC said relevant agencies are monitoring the situation and urged vessel operators to follow official maritime safety advisories and navigation instructions.