UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an incident northeast of Khor Fakkan, UAE: a southbound tugboat said it was struck by two unidentified projectiles. The tug sustained damage but continued on its original course.

Speaking in Bangkok at the IMF–World Bank 2026 Fall Meetings, IMF Asia‑Pacific deputy director Thomas Helbling said the IMF welcomes China’s efforts to uphold a rules‑based multilateral trading system. He urged countries to address the underlying tensions that drive trade disputes and said economies including China have played a significant role in resolving some differences. Helbling added the IMF expects Chinese outbound direct investment to help diffuse and deploy new technologies abroad, notably digital and green energy technologies.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Oct. 18 local time a southbound tug was struck by two unknown projectiles off Khor Fakkan, UAE. The impact damaged the hull and caused one minor injury; the tug remained on its intended passage. Authorities are investigating. UKMTO issued a safety advisory urging vessels transiting the area to exercise heightened caution and to report any suspicious activity immediately.