US forces have hit three Iranian crude oil tankers in the Gulf, US Central Command confirmed on Saturday. Two of the tankers were struck near Iran's Kharg Island coast, and explosions were also reported in the area.

President Donald Trump played down the situation, describing it as "small potatoes" and saying 18 Americans have been killed to date in the war with Iran.

The strikes represent a significant escalation in hostilities between the two nations. Going after crude tankers is broadly considered a move that could disrupt global energy markets.

Kharg Island is a critical hub for Iran's oil exports, shipping the bulk of the country's crude shipments. Any disruption there could have broad implications for global oil prices.

For now, it is not yet known how Tehran plans to respond to the most recent attacks. Analysts are monitoring developments as tensions keep rising in the region.