Oman oil tanker attacks: UK condemns torpedo strikes and blames Iran

The UK has condemned torpedo attacks on tankers in the Gulf of Oman and blamed them on Iran.

The Foreign Office said in a statement that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were behind the explosions.

The Foreign Secretary said: "I condemn yesterday’s attacks on two vessels in the Gulf of Oman.

"Our own assessment leads us to conclude that responsibility for the attacks almost certainly lies with Iran.

"These latest attacks build on a pattern of destabilising Iranian behaviour and pose a serious danger to the region.

“In targeting civilian shipping, international norms have been violated. It is essential that tankers and crews are able to pass through international waters safely.

"We call on Iran urgently to cease all forms of destabilising activity.

One of the oil tankers after it was attacked at the Gulf of Oman (REUTERS)

(A medic tends to the injured)

"The UK remains in close coordination with international partners to find diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions.”

allegedly shows Iran's Revolutionary Guard removing an unexploded mine from the side of an oil tanker after it was attacked in the Gulf of Oman.

Black-and-white footage recorded by a US aircraft shows a smaller boat, said to be an IRGC patrol boat, approaching the Japanese-owned oil tanker, while photos show the apparent magnetic mine attached to the ship before it was removed.

Oil tanker that was 'struck by torpeado' seen in flames with major damage

The blck and white footage released by the US (REUTERS)

Washington has blamed Tehran for attacks on two oil tankers - the Kokura Courageous and Norwegian-owned Front Altair - which rattled global oil markets amid escalating tensions between the two nations.

Iran has denied responsibility, saying on Friday that America's accusations were "alarming" and it rescued the crew of the attacked tankers "in the shortest possible time".

The huge vessels - identified as the Front Altair and Kokuka Courageous ships - were evacuated and the alleged attack prompted a surge in crude oil prices.

A handout shows the effect of the limpet mine on the ship (AFP/Getty Images)

Incredible photos from on board the Front Altair show a huge fireball and black smoke billowing from the side of the vessel.

Search and rescue teams from Iran saved 44 sailors from the stricken tankers.

The Front Altair, which was carrying crude oil, is believed to have been struck by the torpedo - and reports in Iran claim it later sank.