Iranian oil tanker 'hit by two missiles off Saudi Arabia in terror attack'

An Iranian oil tanker has been hit by two missiles in a suspected terror attack, according to reports.

The reported explosion damaged two tanks on board the Sinopa vessel that belongs to the National Iranian Oil Company.

It is said to have caused heavy damage and oil to spill into the Red Sea 60 miles from the Saudi port city of Jeddah.

An expert quoted in Fars news agency said: “Technical experts believe the incident may be due to terrorist activity.”

Iran’s Nour News also reported the crew are safe and the situation is “under control”.

"None of the crew members were injured at the explosion... the situation is under control," the news agency, close to Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards Corps, reported.

There was no immediate acknowledgement from the kingdom.

Tensions have been high between Iran and Saudi Arabia since an attack on the Kingdom's two oil facilities in September.

The attack caused fires and a shutdown of 5.7 million barrels per day of production - more than 5% of global oil supply.

Yemen's Houthi group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but a US official said they originated from southwestern Iran.

Iran, which supports the Houthis in Yemen's war, has denied any involvement.

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