Two explosions were reported near an oil tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which monitors maritime security in the region.
The tanker’s captain reported hearing two explosions as the vessel was sailing approximately nine nautical miles (16 kilometers) southeast of Kumzar, Oman.
UKMTO said the crew and vessel were safe and that there were no reports of damage to the tanker or pollution resulting from the incident.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes for global oil shipments.
The development also comes as Oman holds discussions with Iran over the management and security of shipping through the strategically important waterway.
Iran has reportedly imposed tighter restrictions on maritime traffic through the strait following the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, maintaining that vessels should use an authorized corridor close to the Iranian coast.
The circumstances surrounding the reported explosions, including what caused them and whether they were connected to the tanker, remain unclear.
