THREE TANKERS HIT BY UNKNOWN PROJECTILES IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Three vessels were hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre.

The maritime agency said a crude oil tanker, a liquefied natural gas tanker and a third vessel were each struck, but did not provide further details about the incidents or identify who was responsible.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States, with the strategic waterway facing disruptions to commercial shipping.

Before the conflict, about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the strait, making it an important route for global energy supplies.

Since the conflict began, Iran has restricted the movement of commercial vessels through the waterway and has fired on ships it accused of making unauthorised crossings.

The United States has also responded with a counterblockade of Iranian ports aimed at limiting Iran’s ability to export oil.