Dubai, Oct 22: Seven oil tankers were reportedly damaged or caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz overnight after being struck in attacks or hitting naval mines, according to Iranian state television, amid escalating tensions in the region.

The report, citing a statement from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's Navy, said four tankers caught fire while transferring oil after allegedly being targeted. Three other vessels were reportedly damaged and immobilised after striking naval mines.

If confirmed, the incident would mark the highest number of vessels damaged in a single day in the strategic waterway since the Iran war began on February 28, following joint strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran.

Iranian authorities have not provided details about the nationalities or flags of the affected vessels. Information regarding possible casualties also remains unavailable.

The Revolutionary Guard's Navy warned that any US attempt to facilitate oil tanker movement through alternative routes in the strait could prompt a broader response, potentially extending to American military bases across the region.

The latest incident has raised further concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping corridor through which a significant share of the world's oil supply passes.

The developments come as the conflict continues to threaten commercial shipping and energy transportation across the Gulf region.