Iran downplays blasts as both sides report ship strikes near Strait of Hormuz

Iranian media suggested Saturday evening's explosions in southern Iran were linked to Iranian military activities rather than US strikes, while both sides reported ships hit in or near the Strait of Hormuz. State television said no missile strikes on Iranian territory had been confirmed. Both sides continued strikes on vessels in the strait, restricting global energy exports. Iran reported two tankers hit mines and a third caught fire, while the US said its air force disabled a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman. Tasnim news agency reported two missiles struck Qeshm Island, unconfirmed by officials. The conflict began in February with US and Israeli attacks on Iran, leading Tehran to target strait shipping and US forces to blockade Iranian ports in April. Iran has submitted a nuclear proposal to Washington via Qatar, while the US launched a task force to curb sanctioned material reaching Iran.