Cairo: A cargo vessel has been struck by an "unknown projectile" in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Centre said on Monday.

According to Nam News Network, the incident occurred around 20 nautical miles, or about 37 kilometres, north-east of the Omani town of Khasab. While UKMTO did not provide specifics regarding damage or injuries, it indicated that investigations into the incident are underway.

Iran has insisted that ships use a route along its coastline through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that only the route designated by Tehran is safe. This demand has intensified the ongoing dispute over navigation through this strategic waterway, which serves as a crucial transit path for global oil, gas, and fertilizer shipments.

The conflict over these navigation routes has become a focal point in the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, highlighting the geopolitical significance of the Strait of Hormuz.