China deeply concerned after Chinese tanker hit in Hormuz amid US Iran conflict
Tensions in the Gulf region continued to escalate after China expressed “deep concern” over a Chinese-owned oil tanker being hit near the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
The development comes as the United States and Iran exchanged fresh accusations and military actions following recent clashes involving US naval destroyers in the strategic waterway.
According to reports, Iran on Friday seized the oil tanker Ocean Koi, alleging that the vessel was involved in efforts to disrupt Iranian oil exports.
The seizure added to growing fears over global energy security and stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for international oil supplies.
Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome amid increasing tensions over the war in Iran.
Reports said differences have emerged between Italy and the United States after Rome refused to support the US-Israel military campaign against Iran.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stressed that Europe and the United States “need each other” despite disagreements over the conflict.
In another key development, officials from India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf region remain safe.
Authorities said more than 3,000 Indians have already been repatriated while regional ports continue to function normally.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs also stated that flight operations to India are gradually improving, with the airspaces of Kuwait, Bahrain and Iraq reopened for India-bound flights. Iran’s airspace, however, remains only partially operational.
The crisis intensified after the United States carried out strikes on Iranian military targets following attacks on American destroyers transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump warned Iran against escalating the conflict further and urged Tehran to agree to a deal, cautioning that refusal would bring “a lot of pain”.
Iranian leaders, however, maintained that the country would soon achieve a “great victory” against the US and Israel.
