Oil tanker explodes in Strait of Hormuz after hitting mine

An oil tanker that had deviated from the designated route in the Strait of Hormuz exploded after hitting a naval mine, according to preliminary reports from the Islamic Republic of Iran. The incident occurred despite repeated warnings from Iranian authorities that ships departing from the designated route would face consequences. The tanker was located in an area outside the safe maritime traffic corridor, which Iran had previously established. The Islamic Republic of Iran has emphasized its sovereign rights over the strategic waterway, which is a vital passage for global oil shipments. The report did not specify the nationality of the tanker or any casualties. According to Mehr News, the explosion took place after the vessel hit a mine, though further details remain unclear. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which about a fifth of the world's oil passes, and Iran has periodically asserted control over the waterway.