A major oil tanker carrying over two million barrels of crude oil exploded in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The incident occurred when the vessel attempted to cross the strait along an unauthorized route. The IRGC stated that the explosion was caused by a naval mine, leading to a large fire onboard.
The tanker, identified as a superpetroliera, was reportedly en route to an unknown destination when the mine struck. The IRGC did not specify the nationality of the vessel, though it emphasized that the route taken was not approved by Iranian authorities. The explosion has raised concerns about the safety of maritime traffic in the region.
This incident follows a series of attacks on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, which has become a focal point of tensions between Iran and Western nations. The IRGC has previously warned that unauthorized vessels face consequences, and this latest event underscores the ongoing risks in the area.
The United States has also reported financial pressure on 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 sanctions aimed at restricting Iran’s economic activities.
The explosion has prompted calls for increased security measures in the region, with international shipping companies reevaluating routes through the strait. The IRGC has not yet released details on casualties or the extent of damage, but the incident highlights the escalating conflict over control of critical maritime passages.
