India, May 8 -- 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 Me...