Tension seems to be increasing once again in the Strait of Hormuz, which is considered very important strategically. According to Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim, an oil tanker passing through this waterway collided with a mine laid in the sea, after which there was a massive explosion and the tanker caught fire.
Tasnim news agency, which is believed to be linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC), reported that the tanker was traveling on a route other than the safe route set by Iran, due to which it was hit by the mine. According to the agency’s report, the incident occurred in a part of the strait that the Iranian Navy had already declared dangerous and unsafe.
No official statement has been issued yet by the Iranian government or Navy regarding the incident. The number of casualties in the blast, the condition of the crew on board the tanker and which country’s flag is the ship, have also not been confirmed yet. This incident could not be independently confirmed by international agencies or shipping companies.
Tension continues to increase in Hormuz
It is noteworthy that tension in the Strait of Hormuz has been continuously increasing for the last few weeks. Amid the ongoing military confrontation between the US and Iran, the IRGC has already warned that the southern part of the strait will remain completely unsafe and closed until US “aggression” stops. The Iranian Navy claims that mines have been laid in this area, and any ship that tries to pass through this route without coordination may suffer heavy losses.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s busiest and strategically sensitive sea lanes, passing through the majority of the global oil supply. In such a situation, such incidents can create turmoil in the global oil market and affect crude oil prices. The international community continues to monitor the situation, and the situation will become clearer as further information emerges.