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HMM Containership Cleared to Depart Hormuz After Projectile Damage Repairs

The HMM Namu, a 38,000-dwt boxship, was damaged in a May 4 attack in the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel is expected to leave the waterway this month following repairs, according to South Korea's vice-minister of oceans and fisheries. The vessel was struck twice in its hull while anchored, though no crew injuries occurred. HMM will cover repair costs and file a claim with insurer Steamship Mutual P&I Club. Forensic analysis of debris suggested Iran-developed Noor-series anti-ship missiles caused the damage. Iran's ambassador denied targeting the ship. Two other HMM vessels, the HMM Daon containership and oil tanker Universal Glory, have already departed the Persian Gulf. Twenty-one South Korean-owned vessels have left the region since the U.S. and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17. Two South Korean-owned ships remain stranded in the strait, including HMM Namu with 35 crew aboard.