Iran Claims Responsibility for Strike on Oil Tanker in Hormuz

A significant escalation in tensions between Iran and international shipping occurred on Friday when Tehran claimed responsibility for striking an oil tanker, the Trend, which was attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the state broadcaster, this action was taken due to what it described as an 'illegal attempt' by the tanker to transit the strait without authorization. The Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any vessels attempting to pass through the strait without permission would face 'destruction,' citing Tehran's assertion of control over the waterway since the US and Israel launched attacks in February.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a separate security incident involving a vessel 16 nautical miles northeast of Khasab, Oman. The crew was safe, but there was no information on whether this incident was related to Iran's claim.

South Korea is considering expanding its naval operation in the Gulf of Aden to protect its ships and oil-shipping routes. However, President Lee Jae Myung stressed that South Korea would not take action that would draw it into the US-Iran conflict, pushing back against recent pressure from the Trump administration.