An oil supertanker caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz after striking a naval mine, according to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The incident occurred near Bandar Abbas, Iran, on Monday, September 28, 2026. The vessel, carrying over 2 million barrels of crude oil, reportedly attempted to bypass security measures by disabling its positioning and radar systems.
The IRGC accused the tanker of using deception, allegedly with the support of “smuggling and terrorist US military” forces. This claim was part of a broader statement issued by the IRGC navy. Witnesses reported people wading in the water near anchored cargo ships in the area. The fire was visible from the shore, raising concerns about environmental and safety risks.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has seen heightened tensions in recent months. The incident follows a series of maritime incidents in the region, including unexplained vessel disappearances and attacks on commercial ships. The IRGC has previously warned of threats to shipping lanes, linking them to Western military activities.
The mine strike and subsequent fire underscore the ongoing risks in the strategic waterway. While the exact cause of the mine strike remains under investigation, the event highlights the fragile security environment in the region. The incident has prompted calls for increased monitoring and cooperation among regional powers to ensure the safety of vital shipping routes.
