A oil tanker carrying over two million barrels of crude oil exploded in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The incident occurred as the vessel attempted to navigate the waterway along an unauthorized route. The IRGC stated that the explosion caused significant damage and ignited a large fire onboard.
The vessel, identified as a super tanker, was reportedly en route through the strategic strait when the collision with a naval mine occurred. The IRGC did not specify the nationality of the ship, though it emphasized the unauthorized nature of its path. The incident has raised questions about maritime security in the region, particularly given the ongoing tensions between Iran and Western powers.
This is the second such incident in recent weeks, following a similar attack on an oil tanker in the same area. The IRGC has previously warned of increased threats to commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has also reported financial sanctions against Iran, citing a loss of over $25 billion in oil exports and the freezing of approximately $350 million in cryptocurrency assets. These measures are part of broader efforts to pressure Iran economically.
The explosion has prompted calls for increased international cooperation to ensure the safety of maritime traffic in the region. While the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation, the IRGC has reiterated its stance that unauthorized vessels pose a threat to regional stability.
