Oil Tanker Explodes in Strait of Hormuz After Hitting Mine: Iranian Reports
An oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday after colliding with a naval mine outside a designated navigation route, according to Iranian state-affiliated media reports.
The vessel reportedly drifted away from the shipping lane specified by Iranian authorities before striking the mine, said Iran's Tasnim news agency. As of now, there is no independent confirmation of casualties, the identity of the tanker, or the extent of damage.
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway through which about 20% of the world's oil passes. On June 26, Iran warned that shipping through the strait would 'only be allowed' via routes designated by its military. The incident follows heightened tensions in the region, with Iran and the United States at odds over nuclear negotiations and maritime security.
International maritime authorities have yet to comment on the explosion. Verification of the claims remains pending.