The cause of an explosion on a Norwegian-owned oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman earlier this week remains ‘unknown,’ but the company said it has ruled out ‘mechanical or human error.’ 

‘The incident will be thoroughly investigated by the company along with third parties, including governmental officials, to determine the cause,’ Frontline said in a statement late Friday.

The company said the explosion on the tanker Front Altair took place on Thursday at about 0500 GMT, shortly after it had passed through the Strait of Hormuz.

Citing rising tensions in the region and pending more information regarding the cause of the explosion on Front Altair, the company said it would ‘exercise extreme caution when considering new contracts in the region.’  It is also consulting regional security experts.

A specialist team was due to inspect the vessel and assess damage on Saturday. The 23-strong crew was unharmed.

Another cargo ship, the Kokuka Courageous, was struck twice on Thursday.

The incidents have led the United States to point the finger at Iran, risking an escalation in already-fraught tensions in the region. Tehran has denied any involvement.

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