Chinese-owned oil tanker hit near Strait of Hormuz

Chinese-owned oil tanker hit near Strait of Hormuz in first since Iran conflict began

A Chinese-owned oil tanker came under attack near the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the U.S.-Iran conflict began on Thursday.

A report from Chinese media stated that the unnamed vessel was marked "CHINA OWNER & CREW." The ship's deck caught fire from the attack and it remains unclear whether any of its crew were injured.

This was the first time a Chinese oil tanker has been attacked, a person with knowledge of the matter told Chinese outlet Caixin.

China remains a key buyer of Iranian oil, which has been targeted by a US blockade in the Gulf of Oman.

Reuters contributed to this report.