Chinese tanker turns back in Hormuz after Iran warning

A large Chinese oil tanker turned back from the southern corridor of the Strait of Hormuz after receiving a warning from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, according to local Iranian media reports on Wednesday.

The tanker was navigating the southern corridor of the strategic waterway when it encountered the IRGC Navy's warning. Iranian media, citing other reports, said that Iran had previously targeted Emirati tankers exhibiting similar behavior, but in this case opted to issue a warning rather than take direct action.

Following Iran's directive, the tanker decided against passing through the southern corridor and instead reversed its course, moving away from the Strait of Hormuz. While passing through the strait, the vessel had announced that all crew members were Chinese, but after the warning, it chose to turn back.

The incident comes just after former US President Donald Trump stated that "the strait is under US control," adding a layer of geopolitical tension to the situation. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and any disruption there can have significant implications for international energy markets.

According to Mehr News Agency (MNA), the report highlighted the ongoing tensions in the region, with Iran asserting its authority over the waterway while the US maintains a military presence. The exact identity of the tanker and its cargo were not disclosed in the report.