Several explosions were reported near Iran’s Kharg Island on Saturday, as tensions between Tehran and Washington continued to intensify.

Iranian media reported that explosions were heard in the Persian Gulf near the strategically important island, home to Iran’s main crude oil export terminal. The Student News Network (SNN), citing local sources, claimed that an Iranian oil tanker near Kharg Island had been targeted by a US missile.

However, the report has not been independently verified. Neither Iranian authorities nor US officials immediately confirmed that an oil tanker had been struck.

Iran’s Fars news agency also reported hearing several explosions near Kharg Island. Its correspondent on the island said the sounds appeared to originate from the Gulf, but reported seeing no smoke or fire. Fars added that Iranian authorities had not yet provided an official explanation for the explosions.

Kharg Island, located off Iran’s southwestern Bushehr province, is a crucial part of the country’s energy infrastructure and handles a major share of Iran’s crude oil exports. Any confirmed attack on vessels or oil facilities in the area could therefore have significant economic and military consequences.

The reports come amid renewed direct hostilities between Iran and the United States following a month-long lull. Earlier this week, US forces said they had struck Iranian military targets on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting rocket launchers and equipment allegedly intended for laying sea mines.

Iran subsequently launched attacks against US positions and regional allies, further raising fears of a wider confrontation in the Gulf.

US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly threatened additional military action against Iran. He previously shared an AI-generated video appearing to depict Kharg Island being destroyed, although there was no evidence at the time that the island had been attacked. Iran's state oil company said operations at the island had continued.