UK ready to assist over suspected attacks on tankers in Gulf of Oman

The UK is prepared to assist in any rescue effort or investigation over the “completely unacceptable” suspected attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, Downing Street has said.

The two civilian ships were damaged off the coast of Iran on Thursday amid heightening tensions between the US and Tehran, but many details remain unclear.

An alert urging “extreme caution” was issued by the Navy-run United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations following reports of explosions.

Sailors were forced to evacuate when one of the tankers was left ablaze and the other adrift.

Theresa May’s official spokesman told a Westminster briefing: “Attacks on civilian vessels like these are completely unacceptable.

“We are in contact with international partners and are ready to assist in any rescue effort or investigation.”