Doha:Tehran Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy reported on Saturday that a supertanker struck a mine in a hazardous area east of the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in an explosion and a fire aboard the vessel.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, the IRGC released a statement indicating that the tanker encountered the mine while navigating through the region. However, the IRGC did not disclose the identity of the vessel or provide information regarding any casualties.
The IRGC has cautioned ships in the vicinity against traversing unsafe sections of the strait and has advised vessels passing through the waterway to keep their tracking systems activated. The situation arises in the context of recent hostilities, with the US and Israel launching attacks against Iran on February 28. Iran responded by targeting Israeli and US assets in the area, leading to a ceasefire agreement in April.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz was signed between Washington and Tehran on June 18. However, its implementation has stalled due to disagreements concerning security in the strait.