UKMTO reports tanker explosion in southern Strait of Hormuz

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said a vessel was targeted in the southern part of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report carried by Mehr News Agency.

The UKMTO reported that several vessels have struck naval mines and exploded in the southern part of the strait over the past few hours. In the latest incident, a tanker was hit by an unidentified projectile while it was exiting the Strait of Hormuz.

The report did not identify the vessel, its flag, its owner or the nationality of its crew, and gave no details on casualties or the extent of damage. No group or party has claimed responsibility for the incident, and the origin of the projectile was not stated.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is a key route for global oil and gas shipments. Incidents in the strait have in the past raised concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and maritime traffic in the region.

According to Mehr News Agency, the UKMTO said several vessels struck naval mines and exploded in the southern part of the strait in recent hours, and that the tanker in the latest incident was hit by an unidentified projectile while leaving the waterway.