India, Oct. 4 -- At least three commercial tankers have been hit by unidentified projectiles near the Strait of Hormuz since October 1, adding to concerns over the safety of one of the world's most important oil-shipping routes.

The latest incident took place early Saturday when a crude oil tanker was struck on its port side around four nautical miles off Oman, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

Two other incidents were reported a day earlier. One vessel suffered a minor fire and lost power, while another crude tanker was struck nearby. The attacks come as Brent crude prices remain around $100 a barrel and the G7 has moved to release emergency oil reserves to contain the impact of soaring energy costs.

What happened...