An oil tanker struck a naval mine while attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, triggering an explosion in its engine room, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said on Sunday.
According to the Iranian military, the supertanker could carry around two million barrels of oil. However, officials did not disclose the vessel’s name, nationality or flag. The incident has raised further concerns about maritime security in one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
Iran Warns Ships Against Using Unauthorised Routes
The IRGC Navy said the tanker was attempting to cross the strategic waterway with its navigation system switched off. It described the route as prohibited and said the vessel was the third to strike naval mines along that route since Saturday.
The Iranian navy also repeated its warning that vessels switching off their navigation systems while crossing the strait would be considered hostile. Tehran has threatened to target ships that use routes outside those designated by Iranian authorities or attempt to cross without permission.
Strait of Hormuz Remains a Critical Shipping Route
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and serves as a major route for global oil shipments. Any disruption can raise concerns about energy supplies, shipping costs and international markets. The latest incident follows months of tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Iran announced renewed restrictions on the waterway in July after US attacks resumed.
Meanwhile, the US Central Command said in late August that international shipping lanes had reopened following the removal of Iranian naval mines by US forces.
Disputes Over Maritime Security Continue
The United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding in June concerning freedom of navigation through the strait. However, disagreements over security arrangements have delayed its implementation.
The latest reported mine strike adds to concerns over the safety of commercial vessels operating in the region. With Iran maintaining restrictions on unauthorised routes, shipping companies face uncertainty over navigation requirements and potential risks.
Authorities have not publicly identified the tanker involved in the latest incident, and further details about damage or casualties remain unclear.
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