Iran Strikes Oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Amid Growing Tensions

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have struck an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, citing an 'illegal attempt' to pass through the waterway. The Togo-flagged vessel, Trend, was allegedly targeted by the IRGC navy after it failed to obtain authorization to transit the strait.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a separate security incident involving another tanker in the area, which was hit by an 'unknown projectile' causing a fire that was later extinguished. The crew was safe, but the incident raises concerns about the increasing threat of Iranian attacks on shipping in the region.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of Iranians rallied in Tehran to show support for the government and opposition to US and Israeli influence in the country. The rally, which was the largest since the conflict began in February, featured chants of 'Death to America' and 'Death to Israel', as well as participants trampling flags of the two countries.