Iran Strikes Oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Amid Regional Tensions
A tanker was struck by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Tehran's state broadcaster. The incident occurred when the Togo-flagged oil tanker Trend attempted to pass through the waterway without authorization, the Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed.
The move follows warnings from the Guard's navy that vessels attempting to transit the strait without permission would face 'destruction.' This comes as Tehran has asserted control over much of the waterway since the US and Israel launched their war in February.
Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of people rallied in Tehran, pledging to take up arms as 'Janfaday-e Iran,' or those who sacrifice their lives for Iran. Some participants trampled flags of the US and Israel, while others chanted 'Death to America' and 'Death to Israel.' The government has sought to rally the people and stress national unity amid worsening economic conditions under a US naval blockade of Iranian ports and new US sanctions.