Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGC Navy) announced on Friday that an oil tanker struck a naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz, causing it to explode and catch fire immediately. According to a statement released by the Tasnim News Agency, the vessel was carrying more than 2 million barrels of crude oil and was illegally transiting the strategic waterway.
The vessel had attempted to pass through the strait without authorization from Iran, while the IRGC Navy alleged that the ship had turned off all positioning and radar systems and had attempted to cross the strait with support from the U.S. military.
The incident occurred just days after a Singapore-flagged cargo ship sank in the Strait of Hormuz after hitting a naval mine while traveling on an unauthorized route.
Iran has repeatedly warned any vessels that dare to transit the strait without its permission, while the sinking of the ship highlights the growing risks in one of the world's most vital maritime corridors. Article by: TOUCH SOVANRITHY
