Ammon News - TEHRAN: A strong earthquake has reportedly struck Iran. Cities across the Gulf region and India have also reported tremors.

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Iran near its border with Pakistan on Tuesday at 10:44 UTC, according to the US Geological Survey.

At least 40 people were killed, according to Iranian state television.

The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 15.2 kilometers (9.4 miles) in southeast Iran near the city of Saravan.

Tremors shook Dubai and Bahrain, where officials ordered the evacuation of buildings.

New Delhi also reported strong tremors.

There were no immediate reports of injuries.

Tuesday's earthquake came less than a week after a 6.1-magnitude earthquake claimed dozens of lives in the southern town of Kaki, Iran.

More news to come as this story develops. (AFP, Reuters)

* Photo: This USGS map shows the epicentre of 7.8 magnitude quake at Khash, Iran.