Iran Targets Oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Amid Escalating Tensions

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claims to have struck an oil tanker that attempted to transit the Strait of Hormuz, citing an 'illegal attempt' to pass through the waterway.

The state broadcaster reported that the Togo-flagged oil tanker, the Trend, was targeted by Iran's naval forces. However, the Associated Press could not confirm the report, and it remains unclear whether this incident is connected to a separate 'ship security incident' reported in the area 16 nautical miles northeast of Khasab, Oman.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) noted that a tanker in the strait was hit by an 'unknown projectile,' causing a fire but no immediate environmental damage. The crew was reported safe.

In related news, hundreds of thousands of people rallied in Tehran to show support for the Iranian government since the US and Israel's attack in February. Participants chanted slogans against the US and Israel, with some even trampling their flags.