Iranian Oil Tanker Targeted Near Saudi Port City, Crew Safe

By Staff, Agencies

An explosion hit an Iranian oil tanker operated by the National Iranian Oil Company [NIOC] near the Saudi port city of Jeddah.

The incident took place some 60 miles from Jeddah early Friday, according to informed sources.

The explosion has reportedly hit the vessel’s hull, causing heavy damages to the vessel’s two main reservoirs, which has resulted in an oil spill in the Red Sea.

Technical experts are currently investigating the cause of the explosion. They believe it was a "terrorist attack", unnamed sourced told ISNA news agency. 

A statement by NITC said the SABITI tanker was hit by two separate explosions at 5:00 and 5:20 am Friday, probably after being struck by missiles.

It said the crew members are currently safe and none of them has been harmed in the explosions. The tanker is currently in a stable condition, the statement added.