An explosion has caused a fire on an Iranian tanker near the coast of Saudi Arabia, according to widespread media reports.
According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) the vessel, identified as the Sabity, belonged to the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) and was approximately 60 miles from the Saudi Red Sea port city of Jeddah when the explosion happened.
Iran has reportedly said the Sabity was hit by missiles from Saudi Arabia, but as of yet, no evidence has been presented to support that claim. There has been no response from Saudi Arabia to the allegations.
Domestic media also said the fire had been put out and resulting oil spillage reduced to a minimum. The explosion happened in a time of heightened tension between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
In September, 18 drones and seven cruise missiles hit a major oil field and processing facility in Saudi Arabia, for which Iran was blamed.
Tehran has also been blamed for attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf in June and July, and also on four others in May, but has denied any involvement.
