Oil tanker bursts into flames after hitting mine in Strait of Hormuz

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that an oil tanker carrying over two million barrels of crude oil caught fire after colliding with a mine while trying to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. The Guards claimed the vessel exploded and ignited flames following an alleged unauthorized attempt to pass through the strategic waterway amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Iran has since tightened its control over the strait, disrupting a vital shipping route that typically accommodates about one-fifth of global oil consumption. In a statement, the IRGC stated that the tanker violated regulations by attempting to transit the waterway illegally. The statement did not specify the incident's exact location or provide additional details about the vessel.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, spans approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) at its narrowest point and is a crucial pathway for oil shipments worldwide. Since asserting control over the waterway, Iran has insisted that vessels seek its authorization before passing through. The IRGC suggested that the tanker attempted to cross with American support while turning off its tracking systems.

A video purportedly depicting a burning tanker at night was provided alongside the statement. This incident occurs as Washington maintains a naval counter-blockade against Iranian oil exports in response to Tehran's restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Recently, the Guards' naval commander, Admiral Ali Ozmai, warned that any vessel disabling its navigation systems would be considered "hostile."