Tehran, Sep 06 (V7N)- The United States and Iran have once again exchanged fire around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it launched ballistic missiles at a US aircraft carrier and a destroyer on Saturday (September 5).

According to Tehran, the two US warships were obstructing the movement of Iranian vessels and taking part in a naval blockade. However, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the warships successfully evaded the Iranian missiles and that no US personnel were injured.

Washington subsequently said it had attacked three Iranian oil tankers. CENTCOM reported that two tankers were disabled off the coast of Kharg Island and near Jask, while another empty tanker was destroyed in the Gulf of Oman.

Meanwhile, Iranian state media claimed that four US missiles struck a tanker anchored near Kharg Island. No casualties were reported in the incident.

The latest exchange of attacks around the Strait of Hormuz has intensified concerns about a broader escalation in the Middle East. Commercial shipping through the vital waterway has already declined sharply amid the ongoing conflict.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy corridors, and prolonged disruption to shipping could further affect global oil markets and energy supplies.

END/SMA/AJ