IRGC reports oil supertanker, carrying 2 million barrels of crude, 'hit a mine' while sailing an 'unauthorised' route off Oman

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that a supertanker carrying approximately two million barrels of crude oil struck a mine while sailing an unauthorized route off the coast of Oman. The IRGC claimed the unmarked ship disregarded new transit rules introduced following the start of the US-Israeli conflict in late February, framing the explosion and fire in the engine room as a response to the violations.

This incident follows a similar report of a tanker catching fire after a mine strike, though Reuters noted that these reports had not been independently confirmed. Iran's IRGC has taken a firm stance, demonstrating its power by stopping an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz and reportedly requiring it to wait for Iranian clearance.

The exact details of the vessel, its flag, ownership, crew status, and the potential environmental impact remain undisclosed in the initial reports. There was no independent confirmation of the tanker striking a mine. Iranian media has released new footage showing a container ship sinking, which Tehran claims the vessel violated Hormuz rules.

The US military disputes Iran's claims about the incident in the Hormuz strait. Oil tankers have been attacked in the Hormuz strait, according to the UK maritime agency. Iran is employing unarmed spotters in small boats to identify potential targets, including US naval vessels, as reported. These incidents come amid escalating maritime insecurity since the US and Israel initiated their war against Iran on February 28.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for global oil shipments, making attacks on commercial vessels a significant concern for energy supplies, shipping costs, and insurance premiums. The competing claims over transit rules highlight a broader dispute over control of the waterway. Iran insists that vessels must follow routes approved by Tehran, while the US rejects Iran's restrictions and maintains that international shipping must be protected.