TWO Saudi oil tankers were hit by a "sabotage attack" off the United Arab Emirates, it was announced this morning - as tensions flare between the US and Iran.

The ships were struck off the coast of the port of Fujairah - with one of the tankers due to be loaded with Saudi crude oil bound for the United States.

Saudi energy minister Khalid Al-Falih revealed the tankers suffered "significant damage" - although it was unclear what the attack involved.

He said: "Fortunately, the attack didn't lead to any casualties or oil spill; however, it caused significant damage to the structures of the two vessels."

Trading and shipping sources identified the Saudi ships as Bahri-owned very large crude carrier (VLCC) tanker Amjad and crude tanker Al Marzoqah.

A huge US naval presence has built up in the Gulf over recent days amid a fevered standoff between Washington and Tehran.

US intelligence revealed Iran was on the verge of carrying out offensive action to disrupt and attack American and partner interests in the region.

It led to the deployment of US aircraft carriers, Patriot missiles and B52 bombers over recent days.