Intertanko chairman Paolo d'Amico issued a stark warning to the world on Thursday following the attacks on two tankers in the Middle East Gulf.

The Italian shipowner said in a statement: "Following two attacks on member vessels this morning, I am extremely worried about the safety of our crews going through the Strait of Hormuz.

"We need to remember that some 30% of the world's (seaborne) crude oil passes through the Straits.