A commercial tanker was struck overnight near the coast of Oman, while another vessel reported witnessing an explosion in the vicinity.
The incidents mark a sharp escalation in maritime violence, occurring as Iran warned that the United States' military blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would trigger the closure of key shipping routes.
Reports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing a fresh round of strikes against Iran, further intensifying the geopolitical standoff.
Brent crude prices surged in response to the heightened risk of supply disruption.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy trade, and any move to restrict transit through the waterway would immediately tighten oil markets.
Traders are pricing in a significant premium for route exposure, with shipping equities and freight rates likely to face upward pressure as insurers reassess risk premiums for vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman.