Tanker Burns in Arabian Gulf After Suspected Strike

[Breaking] Two tankers have reportedly been hit by unknown projectiles in the Arabian Gulf, according to UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

A third party reported that two ships had been struck at a position south of Basrah, Iraq. Aboard at least one of the ships, the strike started a fire; the crew of the burning tanker evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported, according to the operator's company security officer (CSO).

The status of the second reported vessel is as-yet unknown, and it has not been identified. No pollution effects have been reported.

The strike would align with a pattern of Iranian attacks on merchant shipping in the Arabian Gulf; more than a dozen vessels have been hit so far, resulting in multiple fatalities.

This story will be updated as more information comes in.