India, Sept. 5 -- Loud explosions were heard after an Iranian oil tanker off Kharg Island was reportedly hit by suspected US missiles, according to media reports.

Al Jazeera, citing Iranian news outlet Khabar Fouri, reported that the tanker was struck by four US missiles and that an evacuation operation was underway.

Kharg Island is strategically important to Iran's oil industry and handles a major share of the country's crude oil exports.

There has been no official confirmation of the reported missile strike so far. No casualties have been reported.

Fighting between the United States and Iran has sharply escalated following a month-long lull, with the two sides exchanging strikes amid growing concerns over civilian casualties.

The U...