IRGC Navy: Three oil tankers explode after hitting mines in Strait of Hormuz

Three oil tankers exploded and caught fire after hitting mines while crossing the unauthorized southern route of the Strait of Hormuz over the past day, according to a statement by the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy. The vessels were abandoned on the strait's southern shores.

The IRGC Navy said the tankers had switched off all their radar and navigation systems and, ignoring warnings from the IRGC Navy, attempted to exit through the unauthorized southern route of the Strait of Hormuz when they struck naval mines and exploded. The statement emphasized that the unauthorized route in the Strait of Hormuz is unsafe and that owners and crews of vessels are responsible for crossing these routes. It also advised them not to pay attention to CENTCOM's "illusions."

The IRGC Navy further stated that reality becomes clear on the ground and that any provocative action backed by the US army that disregards the strait's regulations will be dealt with decisively. The statement described the US military as "terrorist and aggressor."

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway for global oil shipments, and tensions have repeatedly escalated in the region over maritime traffic and security. The IRGC Navy regularly issues warnings about unauthorized routes and has previously blamed foreign vessels for disregarding its directives.

According to Mehr News, the incident occurred over the past day, and the IRGC Navy's statement did not provide further details on the tankers' nationalities or the extent of the damage.