Iran and US Trade Blows in Biggest Shipping Conflict Since War Began

The conflict between Iran and the US has escalated, with both sides attacking each other's ships in the largest wave of attacks on shipping since the start of the war six months ago. On Wednesday, Iran said it had attacked 10 ships near the Strait of Hormuz after the US sank five Iranian oil tankers.

The US military's Central Command said it targeted the oil tankers after attempted Iranian missile attacks on a US Navy warship over the past two days. The attack sent the price of oil surging, with benchmark Brent crude futures breaching $US100 a barrel for the first time since July.

At least one seafarer was reported killed and another listed as missing. Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they would sharply escalate their response to any further attacks.