A supertanker carrying more than 2 million barrels of crude oil exploded and caught fire after striking a naval mine while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to announcements by Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
The IRGC stated that the vessel was attempting to navigate the strategic waterway illegally by utilizing a route that had not been authorized by Tehran. State-owned media reported that the tanker allegedly switched off its radar and positioning systems in an effort to evade Iranian maritime authorities.
Following the incident, the IRGC issued a warning cautioning all vessels against utilizing the waterway, reiterating that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed under Iranian sovereignty and maritime regulations. Officials warned that defying these directives carries severe risks amid escalating regional tensions.
Maritime attacks around the vital waterway have escalated significantly in recent weeks. Iran has amplified its strikes in retaliation against a United States blockade of its ports and stricter sanctions implemented recently.
These mounting threats to commercial shipping have intensified security anxiety across the region. Prior to the ongoing conflict, the Strait of Hormuz managed approximately a fifth of the world's global oil and liquefied natural gas commerce.
Tehran has moved to consolidate control over the strait following US and Israeli strikes, restricting maritime traffic to secure leverage against Washington. Iranian officials have indicated that the country is employing new tactics against passing vessels to influence oil prices and impact political developments.
While oil tankers have been primary targets for both Iran and the US, cargo and container ships have also faced attacks, immobilization, or sinking. Diplomatic efforts to reopen the strait have stalled as Tehran maintains specific conditions and Washington demands immediate talks regarding Iran's nuclear program.
Global shipping threats are further compounded by worsening security conditions in the Black Sea and an offensive by Iran-backed Houthi militants along critical Red Sea maritime routes.