An oil tanker and two other vessels were reportedly struck by unidentified projectiles while sailing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The British maritime authority said it had received a report from a credible source that the vessels were affected by unidentified projectiles on Tuesday.
Authorities have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and determine the nature and possible source of the projectiles.
UKMTO has urged vessels operating in the area to exercise caution while transiting the Strait and to report any suspicious activity.
No party has so far claimed responsibility for the reported incidents.
Iran issues warning over unauthorised shipping routes
The latest development comes days after Iranian authorities warned vessel owners against allowing their ships to use unauthorised routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Iranian authority overseeing the strategic waterway said that forcing vessels to use unapproved routes could expose ships, their owners, masters and crew members to financial and physical risks.
Iranian officials also warned that restrictions could be imposed on vessels attempting to transit the Strait through routes that have not been approved by Iranian authorities.
The Iranian authority said it had received reports that some charterers were directing vessels to use unauthorised routes. If violations are confirmed, the companies concerned could be placed on a non-compliance list, with restrictions potentially imposed on all their vessels seeking to pass through the Strait.
Strait of Hormuz at centre of US-Iran tensions
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint in tensions between Washington and Tehran. Freedom of navigation through the strategically important waterway has become increasingly linked to the broader confrontation and diplomatic efforts between the two countries.
The United States has maintained that Iran should not exercise control over maritime routes leading into the Strait, including routes passing through Omani waters. Washington has also opposed any attempt to impose transit fees on vessels using these international waterways.
Iran, meanwhile, has demanded that vessels obtain permission and follow designated maritime routes when passing through the Strait.
The latest reports of vessels being struck have further heightened concerns over maritime security in one of the world's most important energy and shipping corridors.
