At least two commercial vessels were damaged by missile strikes near the Strait of Hormuz late on Monday (6 July).
This was reported by Axios, citing U.S. officials, raising fresh concerns over maritime security in one of the world's most important energy shipping routes.
The report said Iran's Revolutionary Guards fired at least two missiles at commercial ships transiting the strategic waterway. While both vessels sustained significant damage, no casualties were reported.
Separately, Britain's maritime security agency said a tanker caught fire after being struck by an unidentified projectile early on Tuesday near Oman's coast.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the tanker was hit on its port side about 8 nautical miles (15 kilometres) east of Limah while travelling southbound, triggering a fire on board.
The agency said there were no reported injuries or environmental damage.
Reuters could not independently verify the Axios report or confirm whether the vessel identified by UKMTO was among those cited by U.S. officials. U.S. Central Command did not immediately comment.
The reported attacks highlight the continued risks facing commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow passage between Iran and Oman through which around one-fifth of the world's oil consumption passes.
Commercial vessels have remained vulnerable despite a temporary agreement that included provisions for safe passage following the conflict triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Indirect talks between Washington and Tehran ended last week without any public breakthrough towards a lasting settlement, despite a 60-day ceasefire intended to create space for diplomacy.
On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would either reach an agreement with Iran or "finish the job", renewing his warning of possible military action.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned passing ships over maritime radio during the weekend that "our missiles and drones are ready to fire at you."
The newspaper reported that one of the damaged vessels appeared to be Al Rekayyat, a liquefied natural gas tanker operated by Qatar Gas Transport Company (Nakilat). The ship was reportedly struck on the port side near the engine room while sailing through the Gulf of Oman.
A recording cited by the newspaper said the vessel's engine room caught fire and filled with smoke, although all crew members were reported safe.
Neither Nakilat nor QatarEnergy immediately responded to requests for comment.
The latest incidents are likely to heighten concerns in global energy markets, with investors closely monitoring maritime security in the Gulf and diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Iran as oil exports from the region continue to recover.
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